Moving from a pilot to a formal scheme
The scheme is implemented under the Protection of the Environment Operations (Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme) Regulation 2002.
The regulation builds on the success of the pilot scheme that operated from 1995. The Regulation enhances the pilot scheme framework to ensure water quality objectives will continue to be achieved. The key changes include:
- extending credit lifespan to 10 years (compared to 1-2 years under the pilot scheme);
- credit auctions will re-allocate 20% of credits every 2 years;
- revised river flow classifications and discharge rules will provide greater environmental protection;
- stakeholders have on-going input to the Scheme's Operations Committee (chaired by the Hunter Catchment Management Trust); and
- The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources (former Department of Land and Water Conservation) will continue to provide the scheme river monitoring, modelling and river register services as the scheme Services Coordinator.
Consultation
Stakeholders provided effective feedback on the draft Regulation and RIS (March 2001) in consultation meetings and in the 38 written submissions that were received. The Regulation commenced on 1 December 2002.
- Regulatory impact statement: hrstsris.pdf
- Protection of the Environment Operations (Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme) Regulation 2002
Page last updated: 21 February 2008