Rights to Groundwater

The Water Act 1989 details the rights of the Crown, Water Authorities and individuals to water in Victoria. The Crown's Rights To Water In Victoria the Crown has the right to the use, flow and control of all water in waterways, and all groundwater. Water Authority's Rights To Water Water Authorities have rights to water for supply to their customers, as specified in their Bulk Entitlements.

Groundwater irrigated clover seed production in the Neuarpur area

Licences or other approvals are required for: constructing water bores diverting water for irrigation and other commercial use from on-farm bores

Water Entitlements The term 'Water Entitlements' refers to: Water Rights in Irrigation Districts (Private) Diversion Licences Groundwater Extraction Licences Bulk Entitlements for Authorities

Access Rights and Licencing for various sources of Groundwater for various purposes

Source of Water	Form of Entitlement to Customers	Who issues Entitlement2	Cost
Stock and Domestic Water
On-farm groundwater	Private right 1	-	no charge
Irrigation Uses
On-farm groundwater 1	Licence	RWA	yes
Industrial and Commercial Uses
Groundwater on property	Licence	RWA	yes

Notes:
¹ A Bore Construction Licence is required before drilling bores.
² RWA - Rural Water Authority
Further details
Contact your local Rural Water Authority for further details.

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