The water licensing improvement program will simplify processes, policies and ICT systems to deliver a better experience for NSW water users.
Each year in NSW, there are over 10,000 water licence and approval transactions. The process can sometimes be complex and time-consuming for customers.
The water licensing improvement program is led by the Water group within the Department of Planning and Environment and involves the Planning group, WaterNSW and the Natural Resources Access Regulator. The program will simplify processes, policies and ICT systems related to water licensing and approvals.
The program will deliver a streamlined system that will reduce red tape, make it easier for regional communities to conduct business in NSW, and strengthen the efficiency and sustainability of water use across NSW. Benefits for NSW water users include:
- easier access to the information they need to understand their licence and approval conditions
- faster water licensing and approvals
- more effective and transparent water management, compliance and regulation
- better water management.
The program is in line with the Premier’s priority of putting customers at the centre of everything we do. The initiative will improve customer experience with an online point for tracking applications as they progress through agencies for advice and greater reporting capability.
These improvements support the state outcome to deliver sustainable, secure and healthy water resources and services, and help fulfil the department’s commitment to reduce planning assessment times.
The NSW Government has committed $14.8 million for the 2-year program, which will deliver an estimated $30.2 million in customer and economic benefits.
Testing of the new systems will begin in early 2023.
Further information on water licences and approvals can be found on the department’s website.