Key Points:
A new Bill will remove most (if not all) of the
confusion in the interaction between Queensland's mining and
water legislation, and further streamline approvals
processes.
The confusion over the taking of, interfering with and use of
groundwater associated with mining activities including the
confusion that has arisen as a result of the Mineral Resources Act
1989 (Qld) not being updated in line with changes to the Water Act
2000 (Qld) and the interpretation of these historically flawed
provisions by the Land Court is finally to be resolved.
The Water Reform and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 (Qld)
was introduced to Parliament on 11 September 2014. The Bill has
been referred to Committee, which is due to report to Parliament by
17 November 2014. It is possible that the Government will endeavour
to pass this Bill at the last sittings of Parliament before the end
of the year.
