Plan release information
The South West groundwater areas allocation plan and Statement of response were released in June 2009.
We have since evaluated our management against the plan's objectives:
- South West groundwater areas allocation plan: Evaluation statement 2012–2015
- South West groundwater areas allocation plan: Evaluation statement 2009–2012
The water allocation plan continues to be appropriate for managing water resources. We monitor surface and groundwater in the South West, which provides data on streamflow, groundwater levels, and water quality. This data is currently being used to review groundwater resources, showing that groundwater levels are stable in many areas.
We also regularly assess river health in the South West. These assessments look at how aquatic life is affected by climate change, such as higher temperatures and less rainfall. In 2024, we found that the Margaret River's ecosystems are resilient, with all expected species in good condition.
When a water licence is applied for, we check whether there is water available within the plan’s allocation limits and then conduct a thorough licence assessment process. This includes checking local policies and evaluating the impact and sustainability of the application under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914.
Water allocation planning for South West groundwater
The South West is one of the fastest growing areas in the state and demand for groundwater in the region is high. Planning is needed to provide water users with secure water supplies, while meeting the needs of the community and the environment in a drying climate.
Plan area
The South West groundwater areas are about 200 kilometres south of Perth.
The plan area covers the Bunbury, Busselton–Capel and Blackwood groundwater areas and part of the South West Coastal groundwater area.
Water resources
The aquifers included are the unconfined Superficial aquifer and the confined Leederville, Yarragadee, Lesueur Sandstone, Sue Coal Measures and Cattamarra Coal Measures aquifers.
Publications
South West groundwater areas allocation plan
Blackwood groundwater area - subarea reference sheets
Bunbury and South West Coastal groundwater areas - subarea reference sheets
Busselton-Capel groundwater area subarea reference sheets
South West groundwater areas allocation plan: Statement of response
South West groundwater areas allocation plan: Evaluation statement 2012–2015
South West groundwater areas allocation plan: Evaluation statement 2009–2012
Reviewing the allocation limits for the South West groundwater areas
South West groundwater areas monitoring program
