The NSW Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) has released its fourth annual progress report, coinciding with the completion of a significant restructure and plans to expand outreach to the state’s water users.

The 2021-22 report sees NRAR go beyond its start-up phase and enter a new chapter in water regulation with even greater emphasis on education and engagement activities that help people comply with NSW water law.

Chief Regulatory Officer, Grant Barnes, said the report documented NRAR’s transition to a mature regulator with expanded capabilities and years of experience under its belt.

“It covers the achievements of the last 12 months and describes our plans for the next 12 and beyond,” Mr Barnes said.

“More than ever before, in coming years we will seek voluntary compliance by offering support and guidance, " he said.

“Our recent staff restructure was a significant milestone and aligns our activities even more closely with our purpose, vision, and strategic goals,” he said.

Mr Barnes said NRAR had chalked up other significant achievements and outcomes during the report period:

• The setting of 2022-23 regulatory priorities to guide NRAR’s activities, including the ongoing roll out non-urban water metering reforms and more focus on water use in the irrigated agriculture and mining sectors.
• The transfer of NRAR’s licencing and approval functions to DPE Water to improve and simplify pathways for water users.
• Successful court prosecutions including large fines for an unlawful irrigation canal, damage to environmentally sensitive land and for illegal water take at Brewarrina.
• Increasing use of far-reaching enforceable undertakings (legally binding agreements) to offset harm caused by breaches of the water law.
• Putting a dollar value on the state’s water allocations for the first time through a report that is changing the perception that water is a “free” resource.

Mr Barnes said the progress report was a key part of NRAR’s commitment to being transparent about its work.

“We strive always to be transparent and accountable in our compliance and enforcement activities so we can maintain public confidence that the regulatory system is delivering good outcomes for communities, the environment and the economy,” Mr Barnes said.