NRAR orders metering rulebreaker to stop work

A company in Walgett has been issued two stop work orders by the Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) for allegedly not complying with the metering rules.

Like many across the state with large pumps, bores and water entitlements, this company needed to install accurate meters and telemetry that had been independently validated by a certified meter installer by 1 December 2020.

Gregory Abood, Director Water Regulation at NRAR, said he was disappointed this company hadn’t taken the action required by law, despite multiple interactions with the water regulator.

“These rules ensure all water taken across the state is accurately accounted for to protect our water on behalf of the people of NSW and the environment,” said Mr Abood.

The stop work order is a legal tool that prohibits the company from pumping water through the specified water works until they are fully compliant with the metering rules. A stop work order is an immediate and effective tool to stop ongoing non-compliance.

Prior to issuing the stop work order, NRAR held discussions with the company and issued a legal direction to undertake work to comply with the rules.

“We understand that some water users face challenges complying with the metering rules. However, this company has had more than 18 months and been given every opportunity to comply, yet has not met their lawful obligations,” said Mr Abood.

NRAR enforces the law to ensure fairness to those who do comply. The independent regulator is keeping its eye on other water users who needed to comply in 2020 who have not done so, and is now also inspecting pumps and bores that needed to be compliant by 1 December 2021.

Water users who are unsure if the rules apply to them, or what they need to do can use the Department of Planning and Environment’s online metering guidance tool to find out more.