New levee bank framework to provide greater certainty

Queensland landholders and local communities will benefit from a clear and transparent process for the construction and modification of levee banks, following the introduction of a statewide regulatory framework that came into effect today.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps said the new process was in response to the final report of the Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry.

“We are delivering on the Queensland Government’s commitment to implement the recommendations of the final flood commission report,” Mr Cripps said.

“This is the first time landholders and local communities will have a clear definition of levees and a consistent approach across the state to help them manage the construction and modification of levees in Queensland.

“The changes will provide certainty and guidance for landholders where individuals are constructing or modifying levees with no impact beyond their property boundary by introducing a self-assessable code.

“We are also empowering local councils by allowing them to assess applications for levees, which will have an impact on more than one property, or pose a significant risk to infrastructure or the local community.

“Councils will also have the ability to decide how they wish to implement the new rules by allowing them to make decisions about levees based on their knowledge of the local community and specific local planning and management needs.”

Mr Cripps said it was a logical decision to give councils the power to assess these applications.

“Local councils already have responsibility for coordinating flood management strategies as well as approving most land development applications that new levee banks are likely to be associated with,” he said.

“However, the Queensland Government will continue to provide support and guidance to councils when assessing levee applications.”

The Department of Natural Resources and Mines will conduct a three month review of the guidelines and consult with councils to see if they are working in their local area and to suggest improvements, with an additional review to take place in 12 months.

More information about the assessment codes and guidelines for the statewide regulation of levee banks is available at: www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/water/catchments-planning/levees

[ENDS] 16 May 2014

Media contact: Eleisha Rogers 0413 375 088