The NT Government has a new water allocation plan for the Oolloo Dolostone Aquifer - a major groundwater resource forming part of the Daly Roper Beetaloo Water Control District, and a key source of water for dry season flows in the Katherine and Daly rivers.

The Katherine and Douglas/Daly regions play a vital economic role for industries such as agribusiness and tourism, which are reliant on secure water supplies to support their business operations and need to be sustainably managed into the future. Competing uses for water underpin the need for the plan.

A significant outcome of this plan is the establishment of a Strategic Aboriginal Water Reserve, which will provide nearly 10,000 megalitres per year for Aboriginal economic development.

The plan also makes trading of licensed entitlements possible in the area and establishes specific trading guidelines.

The new 10-year Oolloo Dolostone Aquifer Water Allocation Plan was declared on November 13.

For more information go to www.denr.nt.gov.au/oolloowaterplan

Acting Environment and Natural Resources Minister Natasha Fyles said: "The Government knows the sustainable use of the Territory's water resources is crucial for the health of our rivers, aquifers and water-dependant ecosystems, which in turn support economic growth and local jobs.

"We were elected in 2016 with a promise to engage properly with the community when declaring water allocation plans and that's exactly what we've done with the release of this plan.

"Thank you to the Oolloo Water Advisory Committee for its valuable contribution to this plan."

NT Farmers Association chief executive Paul Burke said: "The Oolloo Dolostone Aquifer Water Allocation Plan declaration is welcomed by NT Farmers. This plan will give surety for water users in the region and will allow for long term economic development for the plant industries."

"NT Farmers are engaged with the Government to continue the water reform process and looks forward to ongoing transparent negotiations that respect all interested parties equally."

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