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ARTICLE · 22 JULY 2020

The modern minefield – water approvals for mining projects

McCullough Robertson
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Overview of the water regulatory regime for resource projects in Queensland & discusses approval related issues.

AustraliaEnergy and Natural Resources
Kate Swain
Kate Swain
Sarah Hausler
Sarah Hausler
Alyce Nielsen
Alyce Nielsen
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This article gives an overview of the water regulatory regime for resource projects in Queensland, by exploring the following questions:

  • Do you need an authority to take or interfere with water for your project?
  • What is an 'Associated Water Licence' and do you need one?
  • How do you comply with water monitoring obligations off-tenure?
  • When do you need a water licence for divertinAg a watercourse?
  • Do you need authority from the State or Federal Government Departments to take or interfere with water for your resource project?

Critically, the rights to all water in Queensland are vested in the State. Predominantly, the water regulatory regime for resource projects is spread across multiple Queensland Acts, including:

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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