Water management is a crucial and core role of Local Government.  Public open space is the highest water use sector for Local Government and accounts for 3% of the State’s water budget. Groundwater availability and quality is declining in some aquifers because of over extraction, saline intrusion, climate change and acid sulphate soils making it difficult for Councils to manage public open space and meet community expectations. Therefore, it is critical that Local Government improves water efficiency, invests in new technology, plans strategically and adopts the use of alternative water sources to ensure it meets licensing and community obligations to provide high quality public open space facilities.

Drainage is also a core responsibility and investment of Local Government. Traditional drainage systems are designed for maximum collection and conveyance and often discharge into waterways. These systems have high replacement costs, poor amenity and provide poor water quality outcomes. Best practice stormwater management can lead to reduced costs, increased amenity, improved environmental and water quality outcomes and can provide a valuable water source for Local Government. Improving water management practices will lead to improved environmental, social and economic outcomes for the sector.

Local Government has a vested interest in improving water management and can do this through planning mechanisms, facilities, public open space management, building controls, foreshore rehabilitation, infrastructure management, drainage practices and community education.

The ICLEI Water Campaign is an international freshwater management program that builds the capacity of Local Government to reduce water consumption and improve local water quality.

Waterwise Councils program recognises Local Governments who have taken action to improve their water management.

Water Conservation Plans have been developed by all metropolitan Councils to improve water use efficiency on public open space. Some regional Councils are in the process of developing their Water Conservation Plans.

Extensive legislative water reform is currently being undertaken in WA which will culminate in the development of the Water Services Act and Water Resources Management Act. WALGA is lobbying and advocating on Local Government issues during the consultation process for these laws.

Sarah Molloy, Environment Policy Officer, (08) 9213 2049 or smolloy@walga.asn.au

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