Enforcer of NSW Water Laws

The Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) is an independent body established by the NSW Government to ensure compliance with water management laws. Its focus is on enforcing sustainable and lawful water use, maintaining fair access and environmental health. NRAR plays a critical role in monitoring water extraction, conducting audits, investigating alleged breaches, and promoting education about water law compliance. 

Case Study and Procecutions

Land and Environment Court, Concluded March 2024 

Offence: A former Wentworth region wine company and its manager pleaded guilty to 2 offences of illegally tapping into the Western Murray Irrigation (WMI) pipeline contrary to section 342 of the Water Management Act 2000 (WMA) and taking water from it contrary to section 343 of the WMA. The offences took place at two separate vineyards between 2016 and 2019 and involved illegal take of just under 365ML of water.

Evidence presented to the court detailed how pipes of various sizes had been used to tap into the main supply pipeline and then bypass metering equipment. The illegal tapping pipework was buried underground and allowed unmetered water to be taken and used for irrigation.

Outcome: The company was convicted and fined $562,500, while the former vineyard manager was convicted and will pay $195,000. The defendants agreed to pay costs of $95,000 to NRAR.

Stockpile Hydration Ensures Customer Compliancy

Decentralized Mechanisms (DecMecs) are flowrate monitoring devices that the customer places on premises to accurately monitor the entire property's water use. These devices integrate advanced sensors and IoT connectivity to provide real-time data on water extraction rates, ensuring precise tracking of usage across different sources like groundwater bores or surface water pumps. DecMecs notify the property manager when water extraction nears the property's water licence limits, enabling proactive management and compliance.

Additionally, these systems can support automated reporting for regulatory bodies like NRAR, reducing administrative burdens and enhancing transparency. By offering historical usage trends and predictive analytics, DecMecs empower property managers to optimize water allocation, avoid penalties, and improve long-term water sustainability.