Archived Industry News for Water Professionals - August, 2012
South Pacific countries will experience more severe and extreme weather events as a consequence of increasing greenhouse gas emissions, according to a research paper published in the journal Nature.
The international study, led by the CSIRO’s oceanographer Dr Wenju Cai, found that the increase in emissions will lead to large changes to the South Pacific rain band, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
The study found that changes to the band as a result of climate change will double the frequency of extreme weather evens in the band.
Victoria releases wetland assessment
The Victorian Government has released a report detailing the condition of wetlands throughout the state, concluding that despite over 13 years of drought, the majority of the state’s high value wetlands were in either ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ condition.
Victoria launches Gippsland Lakes projects
The Victorian Government has launched eight new projects to be funded through its $10 million Gippsland Lakes Environmental Fund.
Government announces $42.5 million for water recycling
The Federal Government has outlined $42.5 million in funding to deliver nine innovative stormwater harvesting and re-use projects in a bid to secure water supplies in urban areas around the country.
$4.5 million for Illawarra water
The New South Wales Government has announced $4.5 million will be invested in upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure in NSW’s Illawarra region.
Greens call for Burke to reject 'failed' Murray plan
The Federal Greens have called on Environment Minister Tony Burke to reject the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, saying it is set to fail the system in its current form.
Lower Hunter Water Panel meets in Newcastle
The Panel appointed by the New South Wales Government to provide independent advice on the development of the Lower Hunter Water Plan has held its inaugural meeting in Newcastle.
New software helps explain groundwater systems
With resource exploration and mining being a key focus of the world's biggest geological congress currently underway in Brisbane, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) will showcase in-house developed software that helps better understand how subsurface groundwater systems behave.
WA moves to assist dryland areas
The Western Australian Government has moved to assist five dryland agricultural local government areas generate extra emergency water to supplement farming and community supplies during periods of low rainfall.
Queensland proposes new CSG water rules
The Queensland Government has proposed new rules to govern the management of water and brine produced by the coal seam gas industry.
Queensland unveils four-year flood proofing plan
The Queensland Government has proposed a $100 million, four-year Floodplain Security System (FSS), which it says could save billions of dollars in future disaster damage.
Queensland rationalises water authorities
The Queensland Government has announced a three member interim board to lead the transition of three bulk water entities into a single body – the South East Queensland Bulk Water Company Limited - from next year.