Understanding Basic Landholder Rights in Water Licensing

Overview

This article explains what “Basic Landholder Rights” mean within the Synergy Water framework. It provides an introduction to these rights, who is eligible, and how these rights fit within the overall water licensing system. It is ideal for landholders looking for clear guidance on water access entitlements without the need for a full licence where applicable.

1. What Are Basic Landholder Rights?

• Definition and Context:

  • Basic Landholder Rights refer to the water use entitlements granted to eligible landholders that allow them to access and use water resources without needing a formal water licence for low-risk or low-impact uses.

  • These rights are designed to meet essential or limited water needs—for instance, for domestic, stock, or minor irrigation use.

• Legislative Framework:

  • The rights are established under the state’s water management legislation, ensuring sustainable use and protection of water resources.

  • They provide a streamlined route for water access while maintaining compliance with environmental and usage conditions.

2. Eligibility and Scope

• Who Qualifies:

  • Generally, landholders who use water on a non-commercial and minimal scale may be eligible.

  • Eligibility typically depends on factors such as the scale of water use, location, and whether the water is used primarily for household, stock, or limited agricultural purposes.

• Scope of Use:

  • Outline examples of approved uses: domestic supply, stock watering, and low-level irrigation.

  • Emphasize that if water use exceeds these basic needs, additional licensing requirements may apply.

3. Benefits and Limitations

• Advantages:

  • Simplified access to water for eligible landholders.

  • Reduced administrative burden by avoiding the need for a formal water licence.

• Limitations and Responsibilities:

  • The rights are limited in scope and do not extend to high-volume or commercial water use.

  • Landholders must comply with prescribed environmental and operational conditions, and periodic reviews or changes in water use may require further action.

4. Additional Information and Resources

• Where to Learn More:

  • Further guidance is available directly from the Synergy Water website.

  • Contact details for support or clarification on eligibility and conditions are provided.