Published Thursday, 15 November, 2007 at 12:52 PM

Treasurer
The Honourable Andrew Fraser

Historic Water Restructure Bill Passes State Parliament

15 November 2007

Historic Water Restructure Bill Passes State Parliament

Efforts to secure and protect Queensland’s water supply were given a major boost with the passing of historic legislation in State Parliament today.

Queensland Treasurer Andrew Fraser said the South East Queensland Water (Restructuring) Bill 2007 will give effect to Stage 1 of the Government’s urban water supply reforms by facilitating bulk water supply and transport business restructure in the South East corner.

“The spaghetti mess that is water supply structure in South East Queensland is set to be straightened,” Mr Fraser said.

“Currently in South East Queensland (SEQ) we have an urban water supply industry which has bulk water sources, transport and treatment assets owned by 25 different entities.

“They service 17 retail businesses based on outdated local government boundaries.

“Today’s legislation will help ensure that, despite the ongoing affects of climate change, residents can turn on the tap and know they can access a safe and secure water supply.”

The restructure will deliver significant benefits to the community including:

  • Improved regional co-ordination and management of water;
  • More efficient delivery of water services in SEQ;
  • Enhanced customer service for consumers across the region; and
  • A clearer accountability framework for water supply security.

Mr Fraser said the Government remains committed to providing councils with compensation for water assets.

“We remain willing and able to negotiate with SEQ councils and independent advisers on a fair and equitable compensation package,” he said.

“The restructure deals with only 20 per cent of council’s water assets and councils will retain ownership and retail benefits of the remaining 80 per cent of assets.

“What we need to ensure is that this transaction is conducted for the benefit of people in the South East corner and not those seeking to prosecute a political campaign with ulterior motives.”

Media Contact: Chris Ward 0418 424 654