Water considerations

GAB

The Far North Prescribed Wells Area (FNPWA) was prescribed under the Water Resources Act 1997 on 27 March 2003, in order to achieve responsible use of underground water, eliminate wasteful practices, ensure ecosystem health and to clarify the rights and responsibilities of users of the Great Artesian Basin (GAB) resources in South Australia. These objectives are consistent with those of the GAB Strategic Management Plan, the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and the 2004 Intergovernmental Agreement on a National Water Initiative.

The FNPWA, which covers an area of ~315 000 km2 in the northeast corner of South Australia (~32% of the state), lies outside the state’s surveyed Hundreds, and within the unincorporated areas of South Australia (with the exception of Coober Pedy). It includes the towns and settlements of Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Marla and Innamincka. Other services are Cadney Homestead on the Stuart Highway and the Mungerannie Roadhouse–Hotel along the Birdsville Track. Santos Ltd maintains a large service infrastructure and camp at Moomba, but this is a restricted company settlement that excludes public access.

The main uses of water sourced from the GAB at present are stock and or domestic supply, petroleum exploration and processing and mining exploration and processing. 

(Source- SA Arid Lands NRM Board)

Key external links for further information

Link icon SA Arid Lands NRM Board - Water Allocation Planning

Link icon Department for Water - Water Licensing and Trade

Link icon PIRSA - Water and mining management framework information (PDF)