The Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water is urging irrigators in the Nobby, Clifton, Warwick to Pratten and Stanthorpe areas to take immediate action to get their water meters installed and validated ahead of the 31 March 2024 deadline.
Queensland non-urban water meters in these areas must be validated to ensure the meter has been properly installed, complies with modern standards and is accurately measuring water take.
RDMW South Region Executive Director Hamish Butler said the program to install new water meters was being rolled out across the state in stages and would support communities to feel confident in the use and management of local water resources.
“The department is working with rural water users to ensure the way we measure non-urban water take across Queensland is up to scratch,” Mr Butler said.
“Irrigators in the Nobby, Clifton, Warwick to Pratten and Stanthorpe areas must install a water meter and have it validated by 31 March 2024. Without a validated meter you cannot legally take water after that date and penalties do apply under the Water Act, so my advice is to book a validator sooner rather than later. If you are struggling to meet the timeframe, reach out to the department and we can assist or provide advice on how to proceed.”
To book a meter validation, find a certified meter installer (CMI) via irrigationaustralia.com.au
Irrigators with questions about installing or validating their meter are invited to attend a local drop-in session to speak with the department.
9am-4pm, Tuesday 27 February 2024 – Stanthorpe (Applethorpe Research Facility (Granite Belt) – New England Highway, Applethorpe)
9am-4pm, Wednesday 28 February 2024 – Warwick (RDMW Office – 1st Floor, Cnr Guy and Fitzroy Streets, Warwick)
Alternatively, irrigators seeking more information can contact the department directly or visit the website.
