A major review of water planning is underway in the Whitsundays, with the Queensland Government launching public consultation to help shape a new regional water plan.
The review aims to strengthen water security across the region by incorporating updated science and regional feedback, particularly from the Don, northern Proserpine and southern O’Connell basins—areas not currently covered by an existing plan.
The Whitsunday water plan will address climate resilience, cultural values, regional growth, and unallocated water, ensuring it meets the future needs of agriculture, industry and communities.
The updated plan will align with broader regional efforts such as the Burdekin Regional Water Assessment, which supports long-term water security and economic development across North Queensland.
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm emphasised the importance of local engagement and strong planning for the region’s future.
“Water is the lifeblood of our region’s agricultural sector and getting this plan right means we will give our growers the confidence they need to invest and grow,” Ms Camm said.
“Public input is essential to getting this right and we want to hear from local communities, industry and cane growers about how water is used, what’s working, and what could be improved.”
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Government was delivering on a key election promise by reviewing outdated water plans and expanding coverage across the Whitsundays.
“Labor left billions of litres of water tied up in bureaucracy, but the Crisafulli Government knows how important it is to unlock water to drive economic growth, more jobs, or stronger regional communities,” Minister Leahy said.
“Our Government knows the importance of water security across the Whitsunday region, and this is one of the steps we are taking to help deliver it long term.
“The proposal includes expanding the current plan area to create a new water plan, which would bring three coastal basins into Queensland’s water-planning framework for the first time.”
This review is part of the State’s wider Watertight initiative, which includes seven new or upgraded weirs and the overhaul of 23 existing water plans.
The goal is clear: deliver long-term water security to regions like the Whitsundays that are ready for growth.
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