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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2002 Week 13 Hansard (21 November) . . Page.. 3935 ..

MR QUINLAN (continuing):

Private places, such as some golf courses, which rely on the urban water supply will be required to meet the same level of percentage reduction. They will be subject to the same penalties as anyone else for water use outside the restrictions in force.

The Utilities (Water Restrictions) Regulations provide for exemption from the restrictions in cases of hardship. These cases may arise in personal circumstances or in business. People experiencing hardship need only apply in writing to Actew to be considered for a permit for exemption, or partial exemption.

The regulations provide for penalties in relation to contraventions of the restrictions. The regulations also provide for enforcement of restrictions by authorised officers of Actew. These officers can issue directions that water is to be used in accordance with the restrictions. They can also enter premises if they believe water is being used other than in accordance with the restrictions. The officers must identify themselves so that members of the public know they are legitimate officers.

They may enter unoccupied premises, if water is being used on the premises in contravention of restrictions. They may turn off or adjust appliances if the restrictions are being breached. It will be an offence to obstruct, hinder or resist authorised officers exercising their functions of ensuring that water restrictions are complied with.

These restrictions apply equally to the territory's private and corporate citizens and the ACT government but cannot be enforced with the Commonwealth government. We will inform the Commonwealth government, through the National Capital Authority, and seek its cooperation in adopting these restrictions. We expect the Commonwealth government, as a good corporate citizen, to act in accordance with the restrictions.

Mr Speaker, the restrictions under the scheme are cautious and pragmatic because the current drought, combined with low water levels and high demand, is outside the experience of the ACT. The severity of the drought justifies the strict nature of the scheme.

I present the following papers:

Water restrictions in the ACT-

Magistrates Court (Utilities infringement Notices) Regulations 2002 and explanatory statement-Drafts

Utilities (Water Restrictions) Regulations 2002 and explanatory statement-Drafts

Scheme of restrictions on the use of water from ACTEW Corporation water supply system, dated 14 November 2002-Draft.

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