SA

Industry consultation – Discussion Paper for the review of the Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy 2015

The Water Quality Policy commenced in 2015 and replaced a 2003 version of the Policy. Since then, several aspects of the Water Quality Policy have been identified as requiring update, leading to the commencement of a review.

A discussion paper has been prepared for public consultation, which outlines five areas for proposed policy improvement:

  1. Improved protection of all underground (including saline) waters for future use
  2. Update national water quality guidelines reference to current Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality, which includes recognition of cultural and spiritual values of waters
  3. Align the Water Quality Policy with the Planning and Design Code requirements in the Mount Lofty Ranges Water Supply Catchment, allowing the EPA to require that development applications referred to it have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality
  4. Align the Water Quality Policy with the updated Code of Practice for Vessel and Facility Management (Marine and Inland Waters) 2019 (Vessel Management Code)
  5. Updating schedules to ensure best practice, including:
  • Schedule 2 – Class 1 pollutants
  • Schedule 3 – Class 2 pollutants
  • Schedule 4 – Codes, standards, guidelines and other documents

 

A copy of the discussion paper is here for your reference and consideration.

Feedback on the Water Quality Policy review will inform the preparation of a draft policy that will be further consulted on in accordance with section 28 of the EP Act.

For more information about the review, please visit the YourSAy Engagement page at www.yoursay.sa.gov.au/environment-protection-water-quality-policy-2015-review On this page, you can:

  • Learn more about the review
  • Download the discussion paper
  • Register for information session
  • Provide your feedback via our short survey

You can also:

  • Email a submission to epainfo@sa.gov.au (mark subject as ‘Water Quality Policy Review’)
  • Post a written submission to: Attn: Dr Clive Jenkins, Environment Protection Authority, GPO Box 2607, Adelaide SA 5001

 

The closing date for submissions is 5pm Monday 9 December 2024.