GSS Community Forums

Perth is receiving less rainfall. Climate scenarios predict it’s not likely to get any better. With declining rainfall and a population set to increase by 40 per cent by 2030, it is vital that we continue to look for the best ways to protect our existing water supply. The Gnangara groundwater system provides us with 60 per cent of Perth’s drinking water. Large volumes are also used by agriculture, local government and household garden bore users. It is also an important source of water for forestry and for maintaining our unique wetlands and native vegetation.

The Government of Western Australia has committed to developing the Gnangara Sustainability Strategy (GSS) to ensure the sustainable use of water for drinking and commercial purposes and to protect the environment.

The draft GSS will be available for public comment in 2009; however, we believe it is critical that there is effective engagement with the community to provide input into the draft before it is released for public comment.

The community forums will be held in May 2008 and by submitting an expression of interest you will be helping us to get a better understanding of the suburbs to hold the events and the size of the venue required. Please go our website at www.gnangara.water.wa.gov.au <http://www.gnangara.water.wa.gov.au/>  and follow the prompts . Please submit your EOI by 31 March 2008.

Led by the Department of Water, the GSS is being developed with the departments of Environment and Conservation, Food and Agriculture WA, Planning and Infrastructure and the CSIRO, Forest Products Commission and the Water Corporation.