February 2016 Draft Business Plan 2016/17

Government of South Australia South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board

February 2016 South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board Draft Business Plan 2016/17 - 2018/19: a report on the public consultation period

Consultation report SA Arid Lands NRM Board’s Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19

Public version

Important note re privacy:

 Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 contain personal details which were removed

 Written submissions in Appendix 2 have been withheld from publication to protect the privacy of individuals; Appendix 3 provides the summary of these written submissions

Contents

1.1 Introduction 3

1.2 Background 3

1.3 Proposed amendments to the Business Plan 3

1.4 Statutory consultation requirements 4

1.5 Consultation strategy, communication channels and products 4

1.6 Avenues for feedback 6

1.7 Timing of communications activities 6

1.8 Consultation response measures 8

1.9 Feedback received 8

1.10 General evaluation 9

1.11 Board response 10

1.12 Appendix 1 Supporting communications products 11

1.13 Appendix 2 Written submissions received 57

1.14 Appendix 3 Summary of targeted briefings and written submissions and Board response 113

1.15 Appendix 4: Online feedback 129

1.16 Appendix 5: Log of phone enquiries 134

1.1 Introduction 1.3 Proposed amendments to the Business Plan This report presents a record of the community consultation activities undertaken by the SA Arid Lands In amending the Business Plan, the Board has had to (SAAL) Natural Resources Management (NRM) Board balance a commitment to its current programs and its during the formal public consultation period on the draft statutory responsibilities to deliver under the NRM Act Business Plan 2016/17 to 2018/19 which occurred over 56 2004 in the face of a number of increased costs. days from 14 December 2015 to 8 February 2016. In July 2015 when the State Budget was announced it Appendix 1 includes the communications products that became clear that the Board would be faced with a supported the consultation period; Appendix 2 provides a number of pressures in fulfilling its obligations from copy of the actual written submissions; Appendix 3 2016/17 and beyond. These include: includes a summary of the outcomes of targeted briefings  an announcement in the State Budget that the and a summary of the written submissions received during Government will seek to partially recover the costs it the consultation period, the Board’s response and any incurs for Water Planning and Management activities recommended changes to the draft Business Plan; to beneficiaries via regional NRM levies. Appendix 4 includes the feedback received through the  an announcement in the State Budget that the online Feedback Form and Board actions; and Appendix 5 Government will apply the NRM water levy to co- is the log of phone enquiries and outcomes. produced water extracted by the gas and petroleum industry, revenue which will be offset by a reduction 1.2 Background in ongoing core funding from the State Government.  additional charges for administrative services The SAAL NRM Board is required under the Natural introduced by the Department of Environment, Water Resources Management Act 2004 (the NRM Act) to consult and Natural Resources (the Board’s delivery agent) in with the public and key stakeholders in preparing the 2015/16. region’s natural resources management plan. Adopted by the Minister for Environment and Conservation in May To ensure the Board can continue to achieve its 2010, the primary purpose of the Regional NRM Plan is to obligations, the Board is proposing: provide an integrated and coordinated basis for the management of the natural resources in the South  To change the way the regional (land-based) levy is Australian Arid Lands Region through the achievement of calculated in out-of-council areas, moving from a defined resource condition and management action fixed charge per rateable property (currently $52) to a targets. tiered rate based on the area of rateable land in 2016/17, with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and Volume 2 of the Regional NRM Plan comprises the SAAL 2018/19 (see Table 1). NRM Board’s three-year Business Plan and the Board is  To continue to apply the fixed charge to ratepayers required under the NRM Act to review this at least every inside council areas but to increase the levy from $52 three years which includes a consultation period with the to $60 with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and public and key stakeholders. The Business Plan sets out 2018/19. how the Board proposes to fund its own activities towards  To raise the existing NRM water levy for all water achieving the resource condition and management action licence holders (except stock and domestic use and targets for the region. bore-fed wetlands) in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area by 20 per cent in 2016/17 with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and 2018/19 (see Table 2).  To set the new NRM water levy on co-produced water at 3.56 cents per kilolitre, with future review of the co-produced levy rate in 2017/18 and 2018/19. 3

Table 1: Proposed out of council levy rates based on  Publishes a summary of the proposed amendments rateable land per property size on its website (and in any other manner that the Board may determine), inviting written submissions Property Number 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 within a period of no less than 21 days; size of rate  Take reasonable steps to consult with a constituent properties council where there is a proposal of funds to be in SAAL recovered via a regional (land-based) NRM levy. < 10ha 2038 $60 $61.74 $63.53

>10 ha - 104 $200 $205.80 $211.77 Given the proposed amendments to the land and water <100ha levies have significant implications for the region’s landholders and many water licensee holders, the Board >100ha - 119 $400 $411.60 $423.54 <100,000ha chose to extend the public consultation period beyond the statutory minimum of 21 days (to 56 days) to maximise the >100,000 90 $700 $720.30 $741.19 ha opportunity for the community to respond; to account for irregular mail delivery and collection in remote areas; and to account for the festive period. Table 2: Proposed NRM water levy increases by Licence Type - 2015/16 to 2018/19. 1.5 Consultation strategy, Type of water levy Existing Proposed Indicative Indicative 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 communication channels and c/kL c/kL c/kL c/kL products Mining; including product processing, To ensure a planned and strategic approach was taken to dewatering, mining 5.35 6.42 6.61 6.8 communicating with stakeholders during the statutory camp supply, and associated mining consultation period a Communications Strategy was uses developed. The Communications Strategy identified the Co-produced Exempt 3.56 3.66 3.77 major stakeholder groups in the region, the key messages, water and the communications channels and products Commercial appropriate for delivering these messages. (including irrigation), Town 3.46 4.15 4.27 4.39 Water Supply, The Board used a diverse range of communications Industrial, Tourism and Recreation channels and products to reach the SA Arid Lands community and deliver key messages to the stakeholder groups. Supporting communications products (letters, It is important to note that the Board has also made some adverts, e-announcements, media release, online and hard difficult decisions to reduce program delivery effort, and copy Feedback Form, Frequently Asked Questions etc) has scaled back its level of investment in science, were available for all mailouts, briefings and on the Natural extension and media/communications. Resources SA Arid Lands and YourSAY websites. Copies

The Board would need to cut back on its core business in are supplied in Appendix 1. the areas of science, communications, community Key features of the consultation period were: engagement and support for NRM Groups if the Board do not raise additional levy revenue.  Phone link with NRM Group Chairs (subject to their availability) ahead of the consultation period. 1.4 Statutory consultation requirements  Electronic mailout (14 December and 28 January) to the major stakeholder groups operating in the SAAL The formal consultation requirements of the NRM Act NRM region: (Section 81) are that the Board: o Pastoral industry

o Mining and petroleum industries . Primary Producers (Livestock) o Progress Associations SA (Rob Kerin) o Peak bodies . Outback Communities o Aboriginal groups/organisations Authority (Mark Sutton, Cecilia o Tourism industry Woolford) o Aboriginal communities and . RDA Far North (Claire organisations Wiseman) o Government agencies . Roxby Downs Council (Bill o NRM Board/NRMGroups Boehm) o Staff . Coober Pedy Council (Tony  Personal email to peak bodies (issued 11 or 18 Renshaw, Michelle Provatidis) December) offering a personal briefing: . Pastoral Board (Geoff Mills) o Coober Pedy Council (Tony Renshaw) . SA Chamber of Mines and o Roxby Downs Council (Bill Boehm) Energy (Jason Kuchel) o Outback Communities Authority (Cecilia . Local Government Association Woolford, Mark Sutton) (Matt Pinnegar) o Regional Development Australia (Far . SA Native Title Services (Keith North) (Jenny Cleary) Thomas) o SA Native Title Services (Keith Thomas) . Australian Petroleum o Local Government Association (Matt Production and Exploration Pinnegar) Association (Stedman Ellis, o SA Chamber of Mines and Energy (Jason Matt Doman) Kuchel)  Two rounds of advertisements in the major local o Australian Petroleum Production and newspapers: Exploration Association (Stedman Ellis & o Coober Pedy Times – 17 December, 28 Matt Doman) Jan o Pastoral Board (Geoff Mills) o Port Augusta Transcontinental – 13 Jan, o Member for Giles (Eddie Hughes) 27 Jan o Member for Grey (Rowan Ramsay) o Stock Journal – 14 Jan, 28 Jan o Member for Stuart (Dan van Holst o Roxby Monitor – 20 Jan, 27 Jan Pellekaan) o Yunta North East News – 31 Jan  Hard copy mailouts to land and water levy payers and  Media release issued (14 December) with post- peak bodies: Christmas follow up reminder to: o Far North Wells Prescribed Area o ABC North & West commercial, mining and co-produced o Coober Pedy Regional Times water licence holders (issued 17 o Roxby Downs Monitor December) o Andamooka Press o Out-of-council landholders (issued 21 o Stock Journal December) o Southern Cross TV o Progress Associations (issued 18  Board and staff briefing at NRM Group meetings December) o Gawler Ranges – Catherine o Peak bodies (issued 17 December) Hollingsworth briefing (16 December) . Conservation Council of SA o North Flinders (18 December) (Craig Wilkins, Jill Woodlands, o Marla Oodnadatta – Janet Brook briefing Nadia McLaren) (22 December)

o Kingoonya – Murray Tyler briefing (11 briefings, via email or via phone call to the Natural January) Resources Centre in Port Augusta. o North East Pastoral – Ross Sawers briefing (16 January) The option to hold community meetings or listening posts o Marree-Innamincka – no briefing was left open on the basis of community interest/feedback. Stakeholders were invited to log their 1.6 Avenues for feedback interest in meeting with the Board through the YourSAY website and the online Feedback Form. Stakeholders were invited to provide feedback via a range of avenues. 1.7 Timing of communications activities

An online Feedback Form was available for electronic Adequate notice was provided for all activities to maximise submission on the YourSAY and Natural Resources SA Arid community participation in the consultation process. The Lands websites as well as via links to the electronic timing of these activities is plotted in Table 3. Media announcements. A hard copy versions of the Feedback articles and interviews are also included here because they Form was also available for post or fax. Stakeholders were provided further promotion of the draft Plan during the also able to provide feedback through the offered consultation period.

Table 3: Major communications channels/activities for promoting draft Business Plan availability

WEEK DATE ADVERTISING, MEDIA, WEBSITE MAILOUTS BRIEFINGS Personal email to peak bodies (issued 11 or 18 December) offering a personal briefing

CONSULTATION COMMENCES 1 Mon 14 Dec Media: media release issued e-announcement to major

Website: YourSAY and Natural Resources SA stakeholder groups Arid Lands webpages live 15 Dec 16 Dec Briefing at Gawler Ranges NRM Group meeting 17 Dec Advert: Coober Pedy Regional Times Letter to commercial, mining and co- Media: Coober Pedy Regional Times article produced water licensees; letter to Media: Murray Tyler (Board member) peak bodies interview on Rural Report, ABC North & West Media Murray Tyler (Board member) interview on ABC SA Country Hour 18 Dec Letter to Progress Associations (issued Briefing at North Flinders 18 December) NRM Group meeting

19 Dec 20 Dec

2 Mon 21 Dec Letter to out-of-council landholders 22 Dec Briefing at Marla- Oodnadatta NRM Group meeting 23 Dec Briefing: Bill Boehm, Roxby Downs Council 24 Dec 25 Dec 26 Dec 27 Dec 3 Mon 28 Dec 29 Dec 30 Dec 31 Dec 1 Jan 2 Jan 3 Jan 4 Mon 4 Jan

5 Jan

6 Jan 7 Jan 8 Jan 9 Jan 10 Jan 5 Mon 11 Jan Briefing at Kingoonya NRM Group meeting 12 Jan 13 Jan Advert: Port Augusta Transcontinental 14 Jan Advert: Stock Journal

15 Jan 16 Jan Briefing at North East Pastoral Group meeting 17 Jan 6 Mon 18 Jan 19 Jan 20 Jan Advert: Roxby Downs Monitor Briefings with:

 SA Chamber of Mines

and Energy

 Primary Producers

(Livestock SA)

 Conservation Council

of SA

 Outback

Communities

Authority Board

21 Jan Media: Stock Journal article (Janet Brook quoted)

22 Jan Briefing: Dan van Holst Pellekaan (Member for Stuart) 23 Jan 24 Jan 7 Mon 25 Jan 26 Jan 27 Jan Advert: Roxby Downs Monitor Advert: Port Augusta Transcontinental 28 Jan Advert: Coober Pedy Regional Times e-announcement: reminder to major Media: Coober Pedy Regional Times excerpt stakeholder groups with additional levy explanation Advert: Stock Journal 29 Jan Media: Southern Cross TV interview with Murray Tyler

30 Jan 31 Jan 8 Mon 1 Feb Advert: Yunta News; the advert was booked for this date but the Yunta News was delayed and was not released (with the advert) until after the consultation period (9 January) 2 Feb 3 Feb 4 Feb 5 Feb Briefing: Regional Development Australia (Far North) 6 Feb 7 Feb 9 Mon 8 Feb 5pm, CONSULTATION CLOSES Tues 9-10 Board meets to consider feedback, consultation report prepared Feb

*Note that the Natural Resources SA Arid Lands statistics 1.8 Consultation response measures exclude visits made from Government of South Australia (StateNet) computers; the YourSAY statistics do not. The following section provides an indication of the success of the consultation process in terms of generated media e-Announcement statistics and website traffic.

The 14 December e-nnouncement that was issued to 651 Media opportunities and advertisements unique emails had 246 unique opens and 124 bounced**. Forty-three unique recipients clicked on the Business The media release generated six media opportunities: Plan; 13 clicked on the Frequently Asked Questions  Coober Pedy Regional Times (Janet Brook) – 17 (general); 9 clicked on the Frequently Asked Questions December, 28 January (Water Program Management); and 7 clicked on the online  Stock Journal (Janet Brook) – 21 January Feedback Form.  Rural Report, ABC North & West (Murray Tyler) – 17 December The 28 January reminder e-announcement that was issued  ABC SA Country Hour (Murray Tyler) – 17 December to 586 unique emails had 202 unique opens and 32  Southern Cross TV (Murray Tyler) – 29 January bounced**. Thirteen unique recipients clicked on the Business Plan; 12 clicked on the online Feedback Form; 5 All media was balanced with the Coober Pedy Regional clicked on the Frequently Asked Questions (general); 3 Times reporting large extracts from the media release and cliked on the Frequently Asked Questions (Water Program Frequently Asked Questions. Management); and 3 clicked on the link to the hard copy Feedback Form. Advertisements appeared as booked (see Table 3). Unfortunately, however, the Yunta News (a monthly **Open rates are a measure of how many people opened (or publication) was delayed and the advert did not appear viewed) the campaign – it is not a 100% accurate measure. until the day after the consultation period had closed; The high bounce rate was anticipated – the use of the there is no December edition so there was no other Campaign Monitor software is new and our email mailing edition of this newsletter during the consultation period. lists are not all complete or up to date. The reminder e- announcement bounce rate was less because the original Web traffic statistics bounces were not resent. (Work is underway to improve email mailing lists.) The Natural Resources SA Arid Lands web traffic statistics indicate that during the formal consultation period (14 1.9 Feedback received December 2015 to 8 February 2016) there were 60 visits* to the dedicated webpage set up for the draft Business The following section details the feedback received as part Plan consultation. Fifty-three of these were unique visits. of the consultation process. Twenty vistors opened the draft Business Plan; 5 opened the Frequently Asked Questions (general); and 4 opened Targeted briefings the Feedback Form. The following peak bodies/stakeholders took the YourSAY page statistics indicate that there were 299 opportunity for an individual briefing (phone call or in visits* to the dedicated webpage set up for the draft person): Business Plan consultation; of these 235 were unique  Roxby Downs Council (Bill Boehm, Stuart Paul and visitors. Facebook posts on YourSAY attracted three Jodie Gregg-Smith ) – 23 December 2015 comments, two from FLAG representatives that weren’t directly related to the SA Arid Lands plan.

 SA Chamber of Mines and Energy (Jason Kuchel, number of these related to issues with the out-of-council Yelena Koerner-Heinjus, Murray Tyler, Rick Barratt, mailing list. The outcomes are included in Appendix 5. Stuart Paul, Jodie Gregg-Smith) – 20 January 2016  Conservation Council of SA (Jill Woodlands, Jeff 1.10 General evaluation Foulkes & Nicki De Preu, Stuart Paul, Jodie Gregg- Smith, Murray Tyler, Rick Barratt) – 20 January 2016 The Board were anticipating a range of reactions and  Primary Producers (Livestock SA) (Rob Kerin, Amy responses to this years’ proposals given the proposed levy Williams, Deane Crabb, Rick Barratt, Stuart Paul, Jodie increases within the draft plan. Coupled with the timing of Gregg-Smith) – 20 January 2016 the review and the contributing factors that remained  Outback Communities Authority Board (whole OCA beyond the control of the Board, there was some dissent Board, Rick Barratt, Stuart Paul, Jodie Gregg-Smith) – expected. 20 January 2016  Member for Stuart, Dan van Holst Pellekaan (Stuart The consultation process utilised some new technologies Paul, Jodie Gregg-Smith) – 22 January 2016 available for far reaching consultation including the SA  Regional Development Australia (Far North) – Jenny Government YourSAy website and an e-Announcement Cleary, Claire Wiseman – 5 February 2016 mechanism that availed a great many more people to the information and options to respond with feedback to the The outcomes are included in Appendix 3. plan. While this was not taken up as widely as the Board would have liked the Board also adopted most of the more Written submissions traditional options and used all local media to support the messaging and communications around the draft plan Twenty-two formal written submissions were received being available for comment and feedback. All pastoralists (Appendix 2). The written submissions were from pastoral and key stakeholders were all forwarded letters with a industry (9); government agency/statutory body (3); breakdown of the proposed changes within the draft plan. mining and petroleum industry (5); non-government organisation (2); and town residents (2); tourism (1). Excellent feedback and engagement occurred through providing personal briefings to key stakeholder groups who Online submissions each contributed valid comment and input to both the content and style of the plan for the readership of their A further 13 submissions were made through the online constituents and members. The Board felt valued and survey (Appendix 4). The submissions were from pastoral supported throughout this process and that the priorities industry (9), tourism industry (5), conservation group (2), currently being addressed were consistent with the Progress Association (1) and non-government stakeholder desires and expectations. In addition the organisation (1). Note, people were able to identify more concern with the increases in levy and the potential impacts than one option. were abundantly clear.

Twelve of these were from people who own live in the Given the small population base and the unique range of region; 11 own or lease land; 2 hold a water licence in the circumstances across such a vast region, the Board were Far North Prescribed Wells Area. Three supported the pleased with the number of written submissions, many of Board’s proposed investment; 5 did not support the which were well considered, solutions focused and proposed investment; and 5 weren’t sure. acknowledging of the difficult circumstances of the Board in having to cut back on some programs and still raise levies Phone call log to maintain a balanced program of statutory responsibilities along with community expectations of services and NRM Twenty-eight phone enquiries were made to the Natural support. Resources Centre during the formal consultation period. A

Much of the written feedback will add value to the current the Board remains assured that the approach of applying a process of rewriting the strategic 10-year Regional NRM ‘beneficiary pays’ model with the levy structure. It Plan which is also nearing the point of first draft completion. reinforces the level of commitment to sustainable Where feedback has not necessarily been relevant or management of the natural resources within the SAAL appropriate to influence this current draft Business Plan, the region as the right way to proceed with both short and long Board has identified a great many passionate landholders, term considerations for the environment, the community pastoralists, environmental enthusiasts and industries with and the economy. which it can engage to continue informing its work and partnerships to explore further local issues and ideas for 1.11 Board response better NRM support across the SAAL region. The Board considered all written submissions, targeted The Board considers that the level of connection with the briefings (Appendix 2 & 3) and online submissions consultation process through media, online media and the (Appendix 4) carefully and adopted changes both relating submission of written feedback by our levy paying to content and general editing that could keep the community is on par with other regions across SA, in actual alignment with the current 10-year Regional NRM Plan numbers not percentage, suggesting our level of and the legislative scope required of this particular process engagement with the SAAL community is promising given and Business Plan. our small population but significant range of natural resource assets. While the changes were generally minor in nature, they clarified, or emphasised some of the desired language or Members of the Board were actively involved in the detail that respondents had requested in feedback. There engagement process throughout this consultation period. were no changes recommended to the levy structure by The Board feels this has reinforced the sense of connection the Board despite the review of social impact modelling to that it seeks to have with the on-ground issues in SAAL and ensure the model was not substantially impacting the is cognisant of the commitment it has made to community tiered levy paying groups identified in this different through the retention of its six district-based NRM Groups approach. and strong regional relationships as a pillar of all else the Board seeks to achieve. Additionally, the Board has communicated with respondents in writing to acknowledge their contribution Overall, the input by community through this consultation to the planning process. The proposed Business Plan has offered a perspective that not only validates the current 2016/17 to 2018/19 (with amendments from consultation priorities of the Board as outlined in the current 10-year process) has been provided to the Minister for Regional NRM Plan (adopted in 2010) but offers some Sustainability, Environment and Conservation for his insights into the needs and aspirations of the SAAL consideration, along with this consultation report. community on pastoral, industrial and conservation viewpoints, which will offer some clear direction on how many of the current Board priorities will be addressed in the coming period.

Despite the level of push-back that related to the causal factors of the proposed changes, many that are largely beyond the influence or control of the SAAL NRM Board along with the ‘hip pocket’ aspect of the increases, the Board remains resolute in its recommendations.

Given the Social Impact Assessment and the review of all feedback and analysis of information across the spectrum, 10

1.12 Appendix 1 Supporting communications products

Media  Media release  Media broadcast summaries and newspaper clippings  Advertisements

Direct mailout

 Letter to peak bodies

 Letter to Progress Associations

 Letter to water licensees

 Letter to out-of-council land levy payers (example)

Website  Natural Resources SA Arid Lands screen shot  YourSAY website screen shot

Frequently Asked Questions

 Frequently Asked Questions (general)  Frequently Asked Questions (Water Program

Management Costs)

Feedback Form  Online Feedback Form (Survey Monkey)  Written Feedback Form

Publications profiling Board activities  On Track (cover of SAAL achievements report 2013- 14), Across The Outback (cover only), Connected to Country (cover only) profiling Board’s major activities

NEWS RELEASE 14/12/15 Have your say - SA Arid Lands NRM Business Plan

The SA Arid Lands (SAAL) Natural Resources Management (NRM) Board has released its three year Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 for public consultation, and it contains significant changes to the way in which the Board is raising its income.

The Business Plan describes the SAAL NRM Board’s income and investment priorities for the three years to 2018-19, detailing how it will work with communities to support the sustainable management of our region’s precious natural resources – our land, water, native plants and animals.

Income from the land and water NRM levies, paid by the community, is vital to ensure the continued delivery of NRM projects and programs valued by the community, and supports the Board to fulfil their obligations under the NRM Act 2004, which include the requirement to manage the region’s plants, animals, water and soils.

“In amending the Business Plan, the Board has made the difficult decision to propose raising its land and water NRM levies, in part to address a range of increasing costs and to ensure we are able to provide our regional contribution to support state-wide water planning and management costs, as described in the 2015/16 State Budget,” said Ms Janet Brook, Presiding Member of the SAAL NRM Board.

“We’ve gone to a lot of effort to minimise the impact on the region’s levy payers, while maintaining our commitment to delivering on the Regional NRM Plan and delivering programs valued by our community”

To support the Boards operations into the future, the Board is proposing:

 To change the way the land-based levy is calculated in out-of-council areas, moving from a fixed charge per rateable property to a tiered rate based on the area of rateable land in 2016/17. Levy rates will vary from $60 to $700, with those landholders having properties greater than 100,000 hectares in size paying the highest levy.  That those with larger landholdings in the region benefit most from the Board’s investment in NRM programs, and should therefore pay a higher NRM land levy  The total NRM land levy raised by the Board will increase from $312,000 in 2015/16 to $461,000 in 2016/17  To continue to apply the fixed charge to ratepayers inside council areas with an increase in the levy from $52 to $60.  To raise the existing NRM water levy for all water licence holders required to pay the levy in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area, by 20 per cent in 2016/17.  To set the new NRM water levy on co-produced water at 3.56 cents per kilolitre.

NEWS RELEASE 14/12/15

The SA Arid Lands community works in close partnership with the NRM Board to manage our natural resources, and there are major changes in this Business Plan which are important for the community to understand.

“We invite our community, particularly those who lease or own land in the region or who pay a water levy based on their allocation in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area to consider the Business Plan and provide their feedback.”

A copy of the Business Plan 2016/17 to 2018/19, other supporting information on details of how to provide feedback are available at www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

For media enquiries contact the SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Centre 8648 5300 or [email protected].

Local news NRM LEVY TO RISE WITH NEW BUSINESS PLAN

To support the Boards operations into the COOBER PEDY ratepayers future, the Board is proposing:

are amongst those invited To change the way the land-based levy is calculated in out-of-council areas, moving from a to have their say on the fixed charge per rateable property to a tiered rate new SA Arid Lands (SAAL) based on the area of rateable land in 2016/17. Levy rates will vary from $60 to $700, with those Natural Resources landholders having properties greater than 100,000 hectares in size paying the highest levy. Management (NRM) three That those with larger landholdings in the region benefit most from the Board’s investment in NRM year Business Plan 2016/17 programs, and should therefore pay a higher NRM land levy – 2018/19. The total NRM land levy raised by the Board will increase from $312,000 in 2015/16 to $461,000 The Plan is now open for public consultation, in 2016/17 and it contains significant changes to the way To continue to apply the fixed charge to in which the Board is raising its income. ratepayers inside council areas with an increase in the levy from $52 to $60. The Business Plan describes the SAAL NRM To raise the existing NRM water levy Board’s income and investment priorities for for all water licence holders required to pay the levy in the Far North Prescribed Wells the three years to 2018-19, detailing how it Area, by 20 per cent in 2016/17. will work with communities to support the sustainable management of our region’s To set the new precious natural resources – our land, water, NRM water levy on co- ELECTORAL DISTRICTS native plants and animals. produced water at 3.56 BOUNDARIES COMMISSION cents per kilolitre. Income from the land and water NRM levies, Notice issued pursuant to section 85(1) of the Constitution Act 1934 paid by the community, is vital to ensure the The SA Arid Lands continued delivery of NRM projects and Pursuant to section 82(1) of the Constitution Act 1934 the South Australian Electoral Districts Boundaries Commission community works in (“the Commission”) is about to commence proceedings for the purpose of an electoral redistribution of South Australia programs valued by the community, and close partnership with into House of Assembly electoral districts. supports the Board to fulfil their obligations the NRM Board to What is the basis of the redistribution? under the NRM Act 2004, which include the manage our natural Whenever an electoral redistribution is made, the number of electors in each electoral district must not vary from the requirement to manage the region’s plants, electoral quota by more than 10 per cent. The electoral quota is obtained by dividing the total number of electors resources, and there are for the House of Assembly as at a specified date, being a date not earlier than six months before the date of the animals, water and soils. Commission’s order, by the number of electoral districts. major changes in this What is the task of the Commission? “In amending the Business Plan, the Board Business Plan which are In making an electoral redistribution, the Commission is required to: has made the difficult decision to propose important for the • ensure, as far as practicable, that the electoral redistribution is fair to prospective candidates and groups of community to candidates so that, if candidates of a particular group attract more than 50 per cent of the popular vote (determined raising its land and water NRM levies, in by aggregating votes cast throughout the state and allocating preferences to the necessary extent), they will be part to address a range of increasing costs understand. elected in sufficient numbers to enable a government to be formed; and to ensure we are able to provide our • have regard, as far as practicable, to- regional contribution to support state-wide “We invite our a) the desirability of making the electoral redistribution so as to reflect communities of interest of an economic, social, regional or other kind; water planning and management costs, as community, particularly b) those who lease or own the population of each proposed electoral district; described in the 2015/16 State Budget,” c) the topography of areas within which new electoral boundaries will be drawn; said Ms Janet Brook, Presiding Member of land in the region or who d) the feasibility of communication between electors affected by the redistribution and their parliamentary the SAAL NRM Board. pay a water levy based representative in the House of Assembly; on their allocation in the e) the nature of substantial demographic changes that the Commission considers likely to take place in proposed electoral districts between the conclusion of its present proceedings and the date of expiry of the present term “We’ve gone to a lot of effort to minimise the Far North Prescribed of the House of Assembly. impact on the region’s levy payers, while Wells Area to consider The Commission is also authorised to have regard to any other matter it thinks relevant. maintaining our commitment to delivering on the Business Plan and Can you make a submission? the Regional NRM Plan and delivering provide their feedback.” The Commission invites representations from any person in relation to the proposed electoral redistribution. programs valued by our community” Any persons wishing to make representations to the Commission regarding the proposed electoral redistribution may do so in writing, and deliver the representation either personally or by post to the Secretary of the Commission, by 5:00pm on Friday 15 April 2016. A copy of the Business Plan 2016/17 to When and where will the hearings take place? The Commission will conduct a preliminary hearing as to demographic data which will commence at 2018/19, other supporting information on 10:00am on Tuesday, 2 February 2016 in the Commonwealth Law Courts Building, 3 Angas Street, Adelaide. Please refer to our website ecsa.sa.gov.au for more information and details of the Commission. details of how to provide feedback are The Secretary available at Electoral District Boundaries Commission Level 6, 60 Light Square www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands Adelaide SA 5001 Postal address The consultation period closes at GPO Box 646 5pm Monday 8 February 2016. Adelaide SA 5001 PN0435

COOBER PEDY OME OPENING HOURS: UNDERGROUND Mon-Fri 7.00am - 5.00pm Sat 7.00am - 1.00pm BOOKSBOOKSBOOKS GLASSWORKS Sun Closed CHEAP FUEL OUTBACK MAILRUN TOUR (ABN: 66 341 152 244) •Fuel •Gas Refills •General Engineering and Light Fabrication •Industrial and hardware supplies Cards & Stationary Free Quoting, On site repairs & Prompt Service •Filters all types •Hydraulic Fittings •Oils Computer Supplies Commercial, Domestic & Vehicles •Bearings •V Belts •Hosing •Air Fittings •Trailer Parts •Safety Gear •Dog Food Desert Parks Agent & other tours Qualified Glazier - 25 years experience •Chain blocks, slings, rigging gear •Cigweld Agent Maps & Books on the area For all your Glass needs call Searle Trading Pty Ltd Dave at Coober Pedy Glassworks on Opal Miners’ Enterprises Local Information/Road report Lot 1299 Old Water Tank Rd 0488 788 294 or alt 0428 204 246 Coober Pedy SA 5723 Phone: (08) 8672 5830 Phone: (08) 8672 5558 ABN: 44 761 266 367 Thursday 17 December 2015 Coober Pedy Regional Times Page 3 MON 01 FEBRUARY 2016 Mediaportal Report

Pre-recorded interview with Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board. Jooste reports that the ... ABC Eyre Peninsula and West Coast, Port Lincoln, Rural Report, James Jooste 17 Dec 2015 6:40 AM Duration: 4 mins 51 secs • ASR AUD 1,791 • SA • Australia • NRM Boards - Broadcast • ID: V00064299778 Pre-recorded interview with Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board. Jooste reports that the SA Arid Lands NRM Board has proposed major changes to mandatory levies to increase revenue. He says the NRM Board will put changes to community consultation that includes rising and additional $150,000 through an increase in the current land based levy charge. Tyler says the recent cuts by the state government have forced them to look for alternative sources for funding. He notes that they have addressed the issue by increasing levies, but points out that it's not all that happened. He says the board has also cut back on other programs that they support and reduce costs in a number of areas. He says the board has a statutory obligation under the act to manage the soils, water, plants and animals in a sustainable way. He says the water levy again was announced that there would be a cost recovery for water planning and management activities. He explains that within the region, they have got a lot of different land holdings and they range from residential lots within council areas to very large pastoral properties and feedback they have received from the old previous business planes and also just in terms of making it more equitable. He says it makes sense that they levy based on an arrangement from property size. He says in effect what it means that those with more land, pay more than those with less. He explains that what happens is the business plan is open for feedback. He explains that the consultation report is then forwarded to the Minister. Jooste says consultation is open for the plan and can be viewed in the SA Arid Lands' website.

Audience N/A ALL, N/A MALE 16+, N/A FEMALE 16+ Interviewees Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board Also broadcast from the following 2 stations ABC North and West SA (Port Pirie), ABC Riverland SA (Renmark)

DISCLAIMER Isentia makes no representations and, to the extent permitted by law, excludes all warranties in relation to the information contained in the report and is not liable for any losses, costs or expenses, resulting from any use or misuse of the report. Pre-recorded interview with Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board. Worthington reports that ... ABC Eyre Peninsula and West Coast, Port Lincoln, SA Country Hour, Brett Worthington 17 Dec 2015 12:12 PM Duration: 5 mins 11 secs • ASR AUD 3,190 • SA • Australia • Adelaide Mt Lofty NRM - Broadcast • ID: V00064305126 Pre-recorded interview with Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board. Worthington reports that the SA Arid Lands NRM Board has proposed major changes to mandatory levies to increase revenue. He says the NRM Board will put changes to community consultation that includes rising and additional $150,000 through an increase in the current land based levy charge. Tyler says the recent cuts by the state government have forced them to look for alternative sources for funding. He notes that they have addressed the issue by increasing levies, but points out that it's not all that happened. He says the board has also cut back on other programs that they support and reduce costs in a number of areas. He says the board has a statutory obligation under the act to manage the soils, water, plants and animals in a sustainable way. He says the water levy again was announced that there would be a cost recovery for water planning and management activities. He explains that within the region, they have got a lot of different land holdings and they range from residential lots within council areas to very large pastoral properties and feedback they have received from the old previous business planes and also just in terms of making it more equitable. He says it makes sense that they levy based on an arrangement from property size. He says in effect what it means that those with more land, pay more than those with less. He explains that what happens is the business plan is open for feedback. He explains that the consultation report is then forwarded to the Minister. Jooste says consultation is open for the plan and can be viewed in the SA Arid Lands' website.

Audience N/A ALL, N/A MALE 16+, N/A FEMALE 16+ Interviewees Murray Tyler, member, NRM Board Also broadcast from the following 4 stations ABC Broken Hill (Broken Hill), ABC North and West SA (Port Pirie), ABC Riverland SA (Renmark), ABC South East SA (Mt Gambier)

Pastoralists in South Australia face increases in land and water levies after cuts to resource management boards ABC Online by abc.net.au editor 17 Dec 2015 4:35 PM 485 words • ASR AUD 9,060 • DEWNR - Online • ID: 513677325 Read on source website

Audience 295,433 UNIQUE DAILY VISITORS, 4,138 AV. STORY AUDIENCE

BUREAU WEATHER BACK ONLINE Port Augusta Transcontinental, Port Augusta SA, General News 13 Jan 2016

Page 5 • 79 words • ASR AUD 168 • Photo: Yes • Type: News ItemClassification: • Size: 70.00 cm² • SA • Australia • Botanic Gardens - Press • ID: 524718047 View original - Full text: 79 word(s), <1 min

Audience 4,364 CIRCULATION

COPYRIGHT For the internal research use of Mediaportal subscribers only. Not to be provided to any third party for any purpose without the express permission of Isentia. For further information contact [email protected] Levy hike furore widens Stock Journal, Adelaide, General News, Catherine Miller 21 Jan 2016

Page 5 • 608 words • ASR AUD 2,568 • Photo: Yes • Type: News ItemClassification: • Size: 583.00 cm² • SA • Australia • NRM Boards - Press • ID: 528974587 View original - Full text: 608 word(s), ~2 mins

Audience 11,858 CIRCULATION

The Natural Resources Management Board has released its three year business plan for ... Southern Cross GTS/BKN Broken Hill, Port Pirie, Regional News, Tim Hatfield 29 Jan 2016 6:37 PM Duration: 1 min 54 secs • ASR AUD 7,752 • SA • Australia • NRM Boards - Broadcast • ID: M00064719065 The Natural Resources Management Board has released its three year business plan for public consultation, which includes raising taxes for landholders in the SA Arid Lands region. Dan von Holst Pellekaan, MP for Stuart, says levies should not be increased above inflation. Locals are urged to Yoursay website or by contacting provide feedback by visiting the Natural Resources SA Arid Lands.

Audience N/A ALL, N/A MALE 16+, N/A FEMALE 16+ Interviewees Dan von Holst Pellekaan, MP for Stuart |Murray Tyler, SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board Also broadcast from the following 2 stations Central GTS/BKN Port Lincoln (Port Lincoln), Central GTS/BKN Port Pirie (Spencer Gulf)

COPYRIGHT This report and its contents are for the internal research use of Mediaportal subscribers only and must not be provided to any third party by any means for any purpose without the express permission of Isentia and/or the relevant copyright owner. For more information contact [email protected] DISCLAIMER Isentia makes no representations and, to the extent permitted by law, excludes all warranties in relation to the information contained in the report and is not liable for any losses, costs or expenses, resulting from any use or misuse of the report. 21 Jan 2016 Stock Journal, Adelaide Author: Catherine Miller • Section: General News • Article type : News Item Classification : Rural • Audience : 11,858 • Page: 5 • Printed Size: 583.00cm² Market: SA • Country: Australia • ASR: AUD 2,568 • Words: 608 • Item ID: 528974587

BY CATHERINE MILLER Keyneton farmer Joe best benefits for the regions,” Keynes acknowledges the he said. LIVESTOCK SA is calling on boards have many valuable A government spokes- the state’s Natural Resource programs, particularly sup- person said the Department Management Boards to porting farmers in bushfire of Environment, Water and freeze their land and water recovery. Natural Resources was still levies at present rates rath- But he questions why pro- considering whether an in- er than impose exorbitant ducers in the regions are be- quiry would be beneficial. rises to recover government ing asked to foot the bill for Livestock SA is also seek- spending from producers. ing feedback from those It is also urging the boards the central water planning in the SA Arid Lands NRM to get back to basics. and management costs. Board zone. Last week it put in submis- This could lift the MDB Their total NRM land levy sions to three NRM Boards; regional levy from $2.14m in will rise from $312,000 in SA Murray-Darling Basin, 2015-16 to $5.63m in 2016- 2015-16 to $461,000 in 2016- Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges 17. The water levy rises from $7.01m to $7.97m. 17 under a proposed plan. and South East. Much of this increase will Landholders face rises of “The question is why are we paying extra government be borne by pastoralists as six to 125 per cent in their the Board moves from a fixed land levy, plus further in- charges into Adelaide to creases in their water levy. support Adelaide when the charge per rateable property The state government’s money raised in the regions to a tiered charge based on decision to recoup $3.5 mil- should go to support region- property size. lion in 2015-16 and $6.7m in al activities helping primary Properties greater than 2016-17 in water planning producers to be sustainable,” 100,000 hectares will pay and management costs he said. $700 a year, compared to the through the NRM Boards has “I pay state taxes to the $52 base levy. added to budget increases. state and monitoring the SAAL NRM presiding Livestock SA president natural resources is a state member Janet Brook says concern so why is the gov- the proposed levy arrange- Geoff Power says producers ernment asking the regions ment is more equitable and are already questioning what to pay?” reflects larger pastoral leases benefits they receive from Mr Keynes says the gov- usually receiving more NRM the levy, regardless of what ernment’s argument that it is support. further value any increases following the National Water “Pastoral lessees bene- may bring. Initiative principles in its fit from a variety of NRM “Many livestock produc- partial cost recovery is not a programs including wild ers are uncertain about the "valid excuse". dog control, pest plant and value of the NRM levy at its He supports Primary Pro- animal control, property present rate,”he said. planning and management, “We are not sure what ducers SA and Livestock SA’s decision-making tools, graz- we are getting for our in- push for an independent re- ing management strategies, vestment, even weeds and view into levy costs, which he ecosystem monitoring, and pest animals are not being is hopeful will highlight ways field days and workshops,” controlled. There needs to to minimise any rises. she said. be a cost-benefit analysis on “We know the Boards are Feedback on the SAAL NRM programs and projects doing some good work, but NRM plan closes February 8. and as a result, some will an inquiry will show where ■ Details: naturalresources. need to be either cancelled they are spending the money sa.gov.au/aridlands or quickly finished.” and where it can have the 21 Jan 2016 Stock Journal, Adelaide Author: Catherine Miller • Section: General News • Article type : News Item Classification : Rural • Audience : 11,858 • Page: 5 • Printed Size: 583.00cm² Market: SA • Country: Australia • ASR: AUD 2,568 • Words: 608 • Item ID: 528974587

INQUIRY NEEDED: Joe Keynes, Keyneton Station, said NRM levies collected in the regions should be used within the regions rather than Adelaide.

Page: 1

Transcript

Station: SOUTHERN CROSS GTS/BKN Date: 29/01/2016 BROKEN HILL

Program: REGIONAL NEWS Time: 06:37 PM

Compere: TIM HATFIELD Summary ID: M00064719065

Item: THE NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT BOARD HAS RELEASED ITS THREE YEAR BUSINESS PLAN FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION INTERVIEWEES: MURRAY TYLER, SA ARID LANDS NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT BOARD ; DAN VON HOLST PELLEKAAN, MP FOR STUART

Audience: Male 16+ Female 16+ All people N/A N/A N/A TIM HATFIELD: The Natural Resources Management Board has released its three year business plan for public consultation and it includes raising taxes for landholders in the SA Arid Lands region. Currently landholders in the region pay the same amount regardless of property size but under the proposed changes those with larger properties will pay significantly more.

REPORTER: The SA Arid Lands region covers over half of South Australia taking up the state's north‐east corner. In the last state budget the Government cut the board's funding by 65 per cent. Facing growing pressure to raise revenue the board is proposing to raise levies with landholders in the region moving from a fixed rate to a rate based on property size.

MURRAY TYLER: Because we're changing the land levy we've also taken the opportunity to restructure it a little bit so to better reflect that the majority of the board's activities take

Page: 2

place on pastoral land, so I guess we've made it a bit more equitable, so the up‐shot of that is that the land levy is greater in pastoral areas for large acreages than it is for residential sort of holdings in townships.

REPORTER: Currently all landholders in the region pay a levy of $60 a year to the board but if the changes go ahead larger properties could be hit with up to a $700 a year fee. The local MP not impressed.

DAN VON HOLST PELLEKAAN: My position is that the NRM levies should not be increased any more than inflation and that the Government should not try and force the NRM boards to increase their levies simply because the Government is withdrawing its own funding contributions.

REPORTER: Locals are encouraged to give feedback by visiting the Yoursay website. They can also contact the Natural Resources SA Arid Lands. They have until 8 February to do so.

Lauren Rose, Southern Cross News.

* * END * *

TRANSCRIPT PRODUCED BY ISENTIA www.isentia.com

AGENCY REPORT For private research and not to be disseminated. Every effort made to ensure accuracy for the benefit of our clients but no legal responsibility is taken for errors or omissions. (*) - Indicates unknown spelling or phonetic spelling. Metro TV demographics are supplied by OzTAM, Non-Metro TV demographics by Nielsen and Radio demographics by GfK.

Local news SERIOUS ASSAULT IN COOBER PEDY Have Your Say on 27 year old father of two will undergo NRM Investment in rehabilitation after brutal attack outside ATM Arid Lands Notice of proposed amendment to the SA On Friday 18th December 2015 police were called to Arid Lands Business Plan Hutchison Street Coober Pedy, where a 27 year old 2016/17 - 2018/19 man from Coober Pedy had been seriously assaulted. The SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board is seeking comment on its According to police, the man was located laying on the amended Business Plan 2016/17 - 2018/19. road unconscious, with serious facial injuries. He was treated at the Coober Pedy Hospital and subsequently The Board is guided by the 10-year strategic flown to the Royal Adelaide Hospital where he remains in direction provided in Volume 1 of the Regional a stable condition. NRM Plan and the Business Plan (Volume 2) sets out how the Board’s own investments will Police confirmed through CCTV footage, believed to have contribute to achieving these goals. been obtained from the Westpac Bank, that there was one In amending the Business Plan the Board has male committing the assault against the victim. taken the difficult decision to propose raising On Saturday 19th December 2015, police arrested the NRM levies to meet increasing costs handed sole offender for Cause Serious Harm, a major indictable down in the 2015/16 State Budget. offence. It is important for community – including all Location in Hutchison Street where brutal attack on landholders and water license holders in the The victim, a Coober Pedy resident and the father of two a 27 year old local man took place region – to understand and to provide their small children has suffered serious injuries, but is expected feedback. to make some recovery through rehabilitation. Visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands for further information. Police say that CCTV footage confirmed that no other More police news on page 6 persons were involved in the incident, though there were Written feedback is due by 5pm 8 February 2016. several witnesses.

RoundRound ThreeThree nownow openopen PN0460 forfor NationalNational StrongerStronger The NRM Board RegionsRegions FundFund is proposing: APPLICATIONS are now open under Round Three “Grant funding must be matched in cash on at least a of the $1 billion National Stronger Regions Fund dollar-for-dollar basis, with the exception of applicants in remote and very remote locations who will need to To change the way the land-based levy is calculated for funding priority infrastructure projects in contribute at least $1 for every $3 of funding sought,” in out-of-council areas, moving from a fixed charge per disadvantaged regional communities. Mr McCormack said. rateable property to a tiered rate based on the area of rateable land in 2016/17. Levy rates will vary from $60 Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and “We have introduced less stringent requirements for to $700, with those Regional Development Warren Truss said Round Three partner funding in remote and very remote communities landholders having properties greater than 100,000 is open to submissions from local governments and not- in Round Three to make the National Stronger Regions hectares in size paying the highest levy. for-profits from today until 15 March 2016. Fund more accessible to these applicants. That those with larger landholdings in the region benefit most from the Board’s investment in NRM programs, “As in previous rounds, I encourage applicants to put “Regional Australia has a vital role to play driving economic and should therefore pay a higher NRM land levy forward projects that demonstrate strong economic development, lifting productivity and fostering innovation The total NRM land levy raised by the Board will outcomes and address identified disadvantage, to give and through the support of this programme we are increase from $312,000 in 2015/16 to $461,000 in 2016/ themselves the best opportunity for success,” Mr Truss encouraging growth and investment at the local community 17 said. level.” To continue to apply the fixed charge to ratepayers inside council areas with an increase “Funding will be targeted to projects which deliver strong Across the first two rounds, the Australian Government in the levy from $52 to $60. outcomes for local communities.” approved $505 million to fund 162 projects across the To raise the existing NRM water levy for nation. all water licence holders required to pay the levy Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister Michael in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area, by 20 per McCormack said applications must be for projects Further information on the programme, including between $20,000 with a limit of commonwealth funding information sessions about the application process held cent in 2016/17. of $10 million. around Australia for potential applicants, is available at: To set the new NRM water levy on co- www.infrastructure.gov.au/nsrf. produced water at 3.56 cents per kilolitre.

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Craig Wilkins PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer Conservation Council of SA Telephone (08) 8648 5300 111 Franklin St Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Adelaide SA 5000 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Craig,

Your organization has recently been contacted regarding the South Australian Arid Lands (SAAL) Natural Resources Management (NRM) Board’s release of its draft 3-year Business Plan which outlines the Board’s activities and investments in the region – including through its land-based and water NRM levies – which are in turn guided by the strategic direction set out in Volume 1 of its NRM Regional Plan.

In its draft Business Plan, the Board has made the decision to propose raising NRM levies to ensure the Board maintains the capacity to deliver on its statutory responsibilities under the NRM Act 2004, while maintaining a commitment to its current programs and addressing a number of increased costs.

To ensure the Board can continue to achieve its obligations, the Board is proposing:  To change the way the regional (land-based) levy is calculated in out-of-council areas, moving from a fixed charge per rateable property (currently $52) to a tiered rate based on the area of rateable land in 2016/17, with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and 2018/19  To continue to apply the fixed charge to ratepayers inside council areas but to increase the levy from $52 to $60 with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and 2018/19  To raise the existing NRM water levy for all water licence holders (except stock and domestic use and bore-fed wetlands) in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area by 20 per cent in 2016/17 with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and 2018/19  To set the new NRM water levy on co-produced water at 3.56 cents per kilolitre, with future review of the co-produced levy rate in 2017/18 and 2018/19.

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

You may also offer direct feedback on the proposed levies via an online survey located at www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au. To assist in your response, we have enclosed a copy of the draft Business Plan, Frequently Asked Questions and a hard copy Feedback Form.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Jill Woodlands PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 NRM Contact/Planner Conservation Council of SA Telephone (08) 8648 5300 111 Franklin St Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Adelaide SA 5001 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Jill,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Nadia McLaren PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 President Conservation Council of SA Telephone (08) 8648 5300 111 Franklin St Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Adelaide SA 5001 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Nadia,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Rob Kerin PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Executive Chairman Primary Producers (Livestock) SA Telephone (08) 8648 5300 4/780 South Road Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Glandore SA 5037 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Rob,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Mark Sutton PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Director Outback Communities Authority Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 2353 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Port Augusta SA 5700 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Mark,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Cecilia Woolford PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chair Outback Communities Authority Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 2354 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Port Augusta SA 5701 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Cecilia,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Claire Wiseman PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer Regional Development Australia Far North Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 1762 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Port Augusta SA 5700 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Claire,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Bill Boehm PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 CEO Roxby Downs Council Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 124 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Roxby Downs SA 5725 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Bill,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Tony Renshaw PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer Coober Pedy Council Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 425 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Coober Pedy SA 5723 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Tony,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Michelle Provatidis PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Mayor Coober Pedy Council Telephone (08) 8648 5300 PO Box 426 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Coober Pedy SA 5724 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Michelle,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Geoff Mills PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Presiding Member Pastoral Board Telephone (08) 8648 5300 GPO Box 1047 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Adelaide SA 5000 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Geoff,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Jason Kuchel PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer SA Chamber of Mines and Energy Telephone (08) 8648 5300 290 Glen Osmond Road Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Fullarton SA 5063 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Jason,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Matt Pinnegar PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer Local Government Association Telephone (08) 8648 5300 GPO Box 2693 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Adelaide SA 5000 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Matt,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Keith Thomas PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Executive Officer SA Native Title Services Telephone (08) 8648 5300 Level 4 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

345 King William Street www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands Adelaide SA 5000 ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Keith,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Stedman Ellis PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Operating Officer Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Telephone (08) 8648 5300 GPO Box 2201 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Canberra ACT 2601 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Stedman,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

Level 1, 9 Mackay Street PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700

PO Box 78 Matt Doman PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Chief Operating Officer – Western Region Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Telephone (08) 8648 5300 GPO Box 2201 Facsimile (08) 8648 5301

Canberra ACT 2601 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands ABN: 94 986 769 005

Dear Matt,

The recent contact from the Board to your organization offered the opportunity for a direct briefing on the Business Plan proposal.

The consultation period closes at 5pm Monday 8 February 2016.

Regards,

Janet Brook Presiding Member SA Arid Lands NRM Board

17 December 2015

SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board Frequently asked questions Proposed Business Plan 2016/17-2018/19

What is the SA Arid Lands Natural Copies are also available for review at the Roxby Downs, Resources Management Board? Coober Pedy Council and Outback Communities Authority offices. The South Australian Arid Lands (SAAL) Natural Resources Alternatively please contact our front desk staff at Natural Management (NRM) Board is one of eight regional NRM Resources SA Arid Lands 8648 5300 to arrange access to a Boards in South Australia set up under the Natural Business Plan and information pack. Resources Management Act 2004 (the NRM Act).

The seven member community-based Board works with community, industry, and government agencies to ensure a What changes is the Board proposing? sustainable approach to the management, protection and restoration of the region’s soil, water, native plants and In amending the Business Plan, the Board has made the animals. decision to propose raising NRM levies to ensure the Board maintains the capacity to deliver on its statutory The SAAL NRM Board is responsible for developing the responsibilities under the NRM Act 2004, while maintaining Regional NRM Plan, which aims to ensure there is a a commitment to its current programs and addressing a balance between the needs of people and the number of increased costs. environment. To ensure the Board can continue to achieve its The plan sets targets for the sustainable use of natural obligations, the Board is proposing: resources in the region and is delivered by Natural Resources SA Arid Lands staff (a division of the Department  To change the way the regional (land-based) levy of Environment, Water and Natural Resources) through a is calculated in out-of-council areas, moving from diverse range of programs and projects across the region. a fixed charge per rateable property (currently $52) to a tiered rate based on the area of rateable What is the Business Plan? land in 2016/17, with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and 2018/19 (see Table 1) The 3-year Business Plan represents Volume 2 of the SA Arid Lands Regional NRM Plan.  To continue to apply the fixed charge to ratepayers inside council areas but to increase the It outlines the Board’s own activities and investments in the levy from $52 to $60 with increases by CPI only in region – including through its land-based and water NRM 2017/18 and 2018/19 levies – which are in turn guided by the strategic direction set out in Volume 1 (a 10-year strategic plan).  To raise the existing NRM water levy for all water licence holders (except stock and domestic use The Board is required under the Natural Resources and bore-fed wetlands) in the Far North Management Act 2004 to undertake a review of its Business Prescribed Wells Area by 20 per cent in 2016/17 Plan at least every three years. with increases by CPI only in 2017/18 and Where can I get a copy of the Business 2018/19 (see Table 2). Plan?  To set the new NRM water levy on co-produced water at 3.56 cents per kilolitre, with future review The Business Plan is available at the following locations: of the co-produced levy rate in 2017/18 and  YOURSAY website 2018/19. Yoursay.sa.gov.au/arid-lands-plan  Natural Resources SA Arid Lands website www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands

Table 1: Proposed out of council levy rates based on It is important to note that the Board has also made some rateable land per property size difficult decisions to reduce program delivery effort, and has scaled back its level of investment in science, extension Property size 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 and media/communications. rate The Board would need to cut back on its core business in < 10ha $60 $61.74 $63.53 the areas of science, communications, community >10 ha - $200 $205.80 $211.77 engagement and support for NRM Groups if the Board do <100ha not raise additional levy revenue. >100ha - $400 $411.60 $423.54 <100,000ha >100,000 ha $700 $720.30 $741.19 Why is the Board proposing to change its land-based levy calculation in out-

Table 2: Proposed NRM water levy increases by Licence of-council areas? Type - 2015/16 to 2018/19. In out-of-council areas the Board is proposing to move from a fixed charge per rateable property to a levy based on Existing Proposed Indicative Indicative area of rateable land. Type of water levy 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 c/kL c/kL c/kL c/kL In effect, this will mean those with more land will pay more Mining; including than those with less land – so a pastoral lessee for example product processing, will pay more than an owner of a property in Oodnadatta. dewatering, mining 5.35 6.42 6.61 6.8 camp supply, and This is considered more equitable and a better reflection of associated mining the way in which our community uses and benefits from uses the sustainable use of natural resources. It also takes into Co-produced water Exempt 3.56 3.66 3.77 account feedback on previous Business Plans.

Commercial Residents inside council areas will remain at a fixed charge (including irrigation), per rateable property with a proposal to raise this levy only Town Water Supply, 3.46 4.15 4.27 4.39 Industrial, Tourism to bring it into alignment with residents of outside council and Recreation towns who own less than 10 hectares.

Why is the Board proposing changes What are the Water Planning and to its NRM levies? Management costs?

In July 2015 when the State Budget was announced it The State Government prepared separate explanation and became clear that the Board would be faced with a number frequently asked questions to explain these charges; see SA of pressures in fulfilling its obligations from 2016/17 and Government’s Water Planning and Management Summary beyond. These include: and FAQs at www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au or on the  an announcement in the State Budget that the YourSAY website Yoursay.sa.gov.au/arid-lands-plan Government will seek to partially recover the (Please note that the SAAL NRM Board absorbed its costs it incurs for Water Planning and portion of the 2015/16 cost ($31,000) in its existing Management activities to beneficiaries via 2015/16 budget.) regional NRM levies.

 an announcement in the State Budget that the Government will apply the NRM water levy to co- What is co-produced water? produced water extracted by the gas and The process of extraction of gas and oil reserves also petroleum industry, revenue which will be offset results in underground water being brought to the surface. by a reduction in ongoing core funding from the This water is referred to as ‘co-produced water’ or State Government. ‘formation water’. The amount produced as a result of  additional charges for administrative services these activities varies but is significant in the context of introduced by the Department of Environment, water management in the region. The volume produced is Water and Natural Resources (the Board’s reported by the industry to the Department for State delivery agent) in 2015/16. Development annually.

How is the NRM levy spent? these significant changes and has the opportunity to provide feedback. The regional (land-based) NRM levy and NRM water levy together contribute around 18% of the Board’s total The Board encourages you to read the proposed Business budget. Plan and provide feedback in the following way:

These levies helps the Board deliver the Regional NRM  Visit the YourSAY website Yoursay.sa.gov.au/arid- Plan and are essential to support the region’s programs in lands-plan where all necessary information will be the long term. housed to consider your response and submit the online survey The Board supports its community, townships and industries (such as pastoral, mining and tourism) through  Contact Natural Resources SA Arid Lands 8648 programs that: 5300 and request an information pack and Feedback Form which can be returned by:  protect valuable ground and surface waters o Fax 8648 5301  improve pastoral land management o Mailed to the Presiding Member, South  conserve natural ecosystems Australian Arid Lands NRM Board, PO  encourage community participation BOX 78, Port Augusta SA 5700; or This amount is critical for leveraging extra funds from other o Emailed to [email protected] sources, especially State and Australian governments. Can I talk or meet with a The Board’s projects and achievements are outlined representative of the Board? through several major publications: If you would like to speak to a representative of the Board  On Track is an annual report to the community we encourage you to either: on the Board’s activities and the progress towards achieving the Regional NRM Plan targets.  Fill out the online survey on the YourSAY website  Across The Outback Yoursay.sa.gov.au/arid-lands-plan and include  Connected to Country your contact details

Copies of these publications are available at  Contact Natural Resources SA Arid Lands 8648 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au or contact Natural 5300 and provide your details to our front desk Resources SA Arid Lands 8648 5300. staff Why did you commence consultation These are significant changes and we ask for your patience in responding to your enquiries particularly just prior to festive period? over the festive period. Consultation closes 5pm 8 Since the July 2015 State Budget was handed down, the February and a representative of the Board will contact Board has been reviewing its budget and preparing the you by that time. draft Business Plan 2016/17-2018/19 under tight If you would like to arrange for a Board member to attend timeframes. a community group meeting please contact the Natural Under the NRM Act 2004 the Board is required to consult Resources SA Arid Lands office 8648 5300. for at least 21 days on changes to the draft Business Plan. How will my input be used? Understanding that it is a difficult time of year, the Board All feedback will be considered by the SA Arid Lands NRM took the decision to extend these timeframes to Board in finalising the draft Business Plan at its next commence consultation before Christmas to provide the meeting on 9-10 February 2016. A Consultation Report SA Arid Lands community with as much notice and will also be prepared summarising the efforts made to opportunity as possible to provide their feedback. consult on the draft Business Plan and providing a Consultation will close on 8 February 2016 and the Board summary of feedback received and the Board’s response. will review all feedback at its next meeting on 9-10 The Business Plan with any amendments and the February 2016. Consultation Report will be forwarded to the Minister for How can I provide feedback? Sustainability, Environment and Conservation for consideration and adoption by June 2016. The community is at the centre of natural resources management in the SA Arid Lands region and it is The Consultation Report will be available at important to the Board that the community is clear about wwww.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands by mid February.

4 September 2015

SA GOVERNMENT’S WATER PLANNING & MANAGEMENT CHARGES

Summary of statewide implications

The 2015/16 State Budget included a measure to recover part of the Government’s Water Planning and Management costs via NRM Board water levies. This measure reflects the Government’s commitment under the National Water Initiative which requires government to allocate water planning and management costs and associated corporate costs on an “impactor pays” basis.

In South Australia, these costs include supporting the water management requirements of the Natural Resources Management Act 2004, including water licensing, compliance activities, science to support the development and management of water resources, development, review and amendment of water allocation plans, and debt recovery.

In 2015/16 there is to be a partial recovery of the costs via NRM Boards, with $3.5 million to be recovered. In 2016-17 and beyond, $6.7 million (indexed thereafter) must be recovered by the NRM Boards.

The Minister sought advice from Presiding Members of NRM Boards about how these costs could be distributed between NRM Boards.

The Minister has accepted the apportionment recommendations of the Presiding Members, resulting in the costs being shared for both 2015/16 and 2016/17 (and beyond) in accordance with National Water Initiative principles and based on the following considerations:

o Where the water planning and management costs are incurred, and

o Where the beneficiaries of sustainable water management reside.

This has resulted in the following apportionment of both the 2015/16 and 2016/17 (and beyond) water planning and management cost recovery amounts:

Share of WPM cost NRM Board recovery amount Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges 30.57% Alinytjara Wilurara 0.02% Eyre Peninsula 0.92% Kangaroo Island 0.06% Northern and Yorke 2.02% SA Arid Lands 0.88% SA Murray-Darling Basin 32.11% South East 33.42%

Boards are currently considering the 2015/16 impacts of meeting these water planning and management cost recovery amounts on the delivery of NRM projects and programs in the regions.

NRM Boards will work with their regional communities as they consider the impacts and consequences of the State Government directive for 2016/17 and beyond.

To this end, NRM Board Presiding Members are currently working together on a State-wide approach to consider the economic and social impact of increasing NRM levies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Water Initiative?

The National Water Initiative (NWI), agreed in 2004 by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), is the national blueprint for water reform.

The NWI is a shared commitment by governments to increase the efficiency of Australia's water use, leading to greater certainty for investment and productivity, for rural and urban communities, and for the environment.

Under the NWI, governments have made commitments to:

 prepare comprehensive water plans

 achieve sustainable water use in over-allocated or stressed water systems

 introduce registers of water rights and standards for water accounting

 expand trade in water rights

 improve pricing for water storage and delivery

 better manage urban water demands.

What are the principles underpinning the NWI?

 Water planning and management aims to ensure the long term sustainability of the water resource, thereby enabling continued water use while maintaining the health of natural eco-systems .

 Conceptually, water planning and management activities can include a broad range of activities that are undertaken as a result of water use or may occur irrespective of water use (e.g. activities to reduce water pollution from land uses).

 Water planning and management activities may be undertaken by a range of parties: including government agencies, water businesses (both government-owned and private), government bodies (e.g. catchment management authorities or natural resource management councils), non-government organisations and private landholders.

 Water planning and management aims to provide clear rights to water while managing the negative external impacts of water use on other water users and the environment. These rights are provided to both consumptive users (e.g. rights to extract water for irrigation and stock and domestic use) and non-consumptive users (e.g. – rights for environmental flows). In providing these rights, water planning and management helps to address water users’ obligation or duty of care to ensure their activities accord with environmental, social and economic objectives.

What are the pricing principles under the NWI?

The NWI Pricing Principles require Australian governments to:

 Identify their water planning and management (WPM) activities and costs

 Have these activities independently tested for cost-effectiveness

 Allocate these costs, including associated corporate costs, on an “impactor pays” basis

 Recover the costs from impactors on the basis of catchment or water source, where practicable; and

 Exclude water policy or Ministerial services from any resultant water charges.

What is “impactor pays” under these principles?

The Government’s commitment under the National Water Initiative requires the government to allocate water planning and management costs and associated corporate costs on an “impactor pays” basis. (An impactor is someone who is either a beneficiary of the WPM activity or causes the WPM activity to be undertaken). Can you justify these additional charges?

These additional charges are based on the State Government’s move towards implementing an impactor pays philosophy. The Minister believes it is appropriate that water planning and management charges are recovered from water users through regional NRM levies. These charges cover activities such as water licensing, compliance activities, science to support the development and management of water resources, development, review and amendment of water allocation plans, and debt recovery.

How much does WPM cost DEWNR each year?

These costs to DEWNR will amount to more than $40 million in 2015/16. A partial recovery of these costs will be required from NRM Boards, via NRM levy funds. How were the 2015/16 and 2016/17 (and beyond) WPM amounts set?

The cost of WPM is more than $40 million annually. The amount to be recovered from levies will relate to water management activities required under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004, including water licensing, compliance activities, science to support the development and management of water resources, development, review and amendment of water allocation plans, and debt recovery .

What are the services and accurate WPM costs the government is incurring and NRM Boards are being asked to pay?

Collectively, the NRM Boards have been asked to pay a portion of the NWI-recoverable costs incurred across the State for water planning and management activities, which to-date, have been covered by State Appropriation and SA Water. NWI-recoverable water planning and management activities include water licensing, compliance activities, science to support management of water resources and the development and management of water allocation plans, and debt recovery. While the Minister, NRM Board Presiding Members and DEWNR are confident that these costs to be recovered from NRM Boards represent a portion of the State’s total NWI-recoverable expenditure on water planning and management activities, the Presiding Members of the State’s eight NRM Boards have requested the Minister’s support in undertaking a transparent and independent review of these costs for cost effectiveness (based on NWI principles). Presiding Members have been asked by the Minister to work with DEWNR to further consider what the form and objectives of such a review might be.

Which of these WPM activities are valid under NWI?

All of the water planning and management activities mentioned above are recoverable under NWI.

What have the revenue streams been to date, and what has changed?

State Government can no longer subsidise (using State Appropriation) NWI-recoverable water planning and management costs to the extent it has in the past.

What are other jurisdictions doing to recoup WPM costs from impactors? In these other jurisdcitions, how are these costs attributed to each segment of Impactors and why? How does this compare to SA?

DEWNR is currently preparing advice on these queries and is due to report back to Presiding Members in September 2015.

Will services be affected?

Each of the eight NRM Boards will need to evaluate the impact of these costs on their Business Plan and budgets. The State Government will support Boards should they determine to increase NRM levies for 2016/17 (and beyond) to recover these costs, and is also prepared to reconsider Boards’ 2015-16 Business Plan, should Boards wish to revisit planned expenditure.

The State Government recognises these costs may have a significant impact on NRM Board programs, and will require difficult decisions being made. It will be up to individual Boards to best determine how these costs will be met and what the impact will be on services.

How much extra levy will water users and beneficiaries pay from 16-17?

This has not yet been determined and will depend on the methodology the Boards employ to recover costs – for example this could be based on users, such as the number of water licenses in a region, or the value or volume of water used by license holders, or on beneficiaries, or a combination of these approaches.

Won’t that have a huge impact on small business?

Presiding Members are working together to establish the most fair and equitable method of recovering these costs from NRM levy payers. A social and economic impact assessment will be undertaken for any levy changes proposed in NRM Board Business Plan for 2016/17 (and beyond) which exceed CPI.

If you can’t pass on the changes to levy payers, will more regional services be cut?

It is too early to predict how each of the NRM Boards will respond and what impact this may have on services or staff. Boards will be working to minimise the impact on staffing levels and services but face some tough budgetary decisions.

Will we lose regional staff?

As above.

Shouldn’t big business be asked to pay more instead of picking on small primary producers?

Boards will be considering the impact on all water users and beneficiaries when determining the most fair and equitable method to recover water planning and management costs.

SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board Feedback Form Proposed Business Plan 2016/17-2018/19

The SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board is seeking comment on its amended Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19.

The Board is guided by the 10-year strategic direction provided in Volume 1 of the Regional NRM Plan and the Business Plan (Volume 2) sets out how the Board’s own investments will contribute to achieving these goals.

In amending the Business Plan the Board has taken the difficult decision to propose raising NRM levies to meet a range of increased costs to meet State Water Planning and Management and other increasing costs handed down in the 2015/16 State Budget.

The Board invites you to download a copy of the Business Plan and the FAQs that it has prepared to assist you to review and provide feedback on the proposed amendments. Visit yourSAY website Yoursay.sa.gov.au/arid-lands-plan or Natural Resources SA Arid Lands website www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands for more information.

1. Is the proposed investment of available funds appropriate? ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Not sure

If not, what concerns do you have and how should these be addressed?

______

2. Would you like to raise anything else? ______

3. Would you like a representative of the Board to contact you about your concerns? If yes, please provide your name, a phone number and the best time to contact you. Your personal details will not be shared.

______

These are significant changes and we ask for your patience in responding to your enquiries particularly over the festive period. Consultation closes COB 8 February and a representative of the Board will contact you by that time.

A little about you… 4. I am a member of... (please mark a cross in all that apply) ☐ Mining, gas or petroleum industry ☐ Pastoral industry ☐ Tourism industry

☐ Government agency ☐ Progress Association ☐ Conservation group

☐ Non-government organisation ☐ Aboriginal community or organisation

☐ Member of Parliament

Other (please specify) ______

5. Do you live in the SA Arid Lands region? ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Not sure

6. Do you own or lease land in the region? ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Not sure

7. Do you hold a water license in the Far North Prescribed Wells Area? ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Not sure

KEEP INFORMED… Submit your form… If you would like to be kept informed of natural resources management Mail it: developments, projects and opportunities in the Arid Lands region we The Presiding Member, invite you to subscribe to our major publications, Across The Outback, South Australian Arid Lands NRM Board PO BOX 78, Port Augusta SA 5700 Connected To Country and On Track: www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands/news/subscribe Fax it: 08 8648 5301 (Fax) Email it: [email protected] THANK YOU FOR YOUR FEEDBACK

All written feedback gathered during the consultation on the draft Your completed form must be received by 5pm Monday 8 Business Plan will be consolidated by the SAAL NRM Board. The Plan will February 2016. be presented to the Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation (with recommended alterations) for consideration. Your Visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/aridlands for further feedback (minus your personal details) may be made available to the information. public.

AUGUST 2015 Connected to ISSUE 02

ABORIGINAL NRM NEWS FROM THE SA ARID LANDS

CONTENTS SCIENCE MEETS CULTURE SCIENCE MEETS AT HOOKINA 01 WELCOME BACK 02 LOOKING AT THE RIVERS CULTURE AT AND PLAYING IN THE DIRT 04 UMOONA COUNCIL TAKES ON WEED CONTROL 06 COOBER PEDY KIDS SHARE THEIR LOVE OF KANKU 07 HOOKINA KOKATHA IN THE DRIVERS’ SEAT 08 Traditional Owners and government scientists RETURN OF THE VIRLDA 10 gathered at Yappala Station in June to talk about how WHOA-BOYS – WHAT THE!? 11 groundwater rises to the surface in Hookina Creek, an VEGETATION BACK ON THE VULKATHUNHA-GAMMON important cultural site in the Flinders Ranges situated RANGES 12 about 20 kilometres north-west of Hawker.

he meeting brought together Steve and Lauren have been working to TViliwarinha Yura Aboriginal better understand the Hookina Creek Corporation (VYAC) directors Zaaheer system and especially the waterhole known McKenzie, Malcolm McKenzie and Alwyn as Hookina Spring (Punkga Pudanha). McKenzie, with hydrogeologists Lauren Continued on Page 03 Houthuysen and Steve Barnett from the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources.

CONNECTED TO COUNTRY | 01 November 2015 Issue 75

ACROSS THE OUTBACK Montecollina Bore

Well maintained bores last longer

The SAAL NRM Board would like to remind water users in the 01 BOARD NEWS SA Arid Lands region who have a bore under their care and 01 Well maintained bores last longer control to undertake simple, routine maintenance to reduce 02 LEB partnership wins world’s highest river management honour risks to water supplies, prevent costly and inconvenient 04 LAND MANAGEMENT breakdowns, and to meet their legal obligations. 04 Innovative ‘Spatial Hub’ lands in The region’s largest water resource is the The review of 289 artesian bores in the Far South Australia Great Artesian Basin (GAB) which provides North Prescribed Wells Area was undertaken 05 Grader workshops help fight soil a vital supply of groundwater for the to establish a comprehensive picture of the erosion continued operation of our key industries condition of the artesian bores in South 06 Women’s Retreat hailed a success (tourism, pastoral, mining, gas and Australia. petroleum) and to meet the needs of our It highlighted that maintenance needs to 07 THREATENED SPECIES communities and wildlife. improve. 07 Are Ampurtas making a comeback? To safeguard the sustainability of the In recent decades, governments, industry 08 SA ARID LANDS – IT’S YOUR GAB and other groundwater aquifers the and individuals have invested significantly PLACE Far North Prescribed Wells Area Water in bore rehabilitation and installing piped Allocation Plan was adopted in 2009 after a reticulation systems to deliver GAB water 12 VOLUNTEERS planning process led by the Board under the efficiently. Natural Resources Management Act 2004. 14 PEST MANAGEMENT The GAB Sustainability Initiative 14 Arkaba Station: goats just don’t add The Water Allocation Plan provides for has supported water users to install up responsible, fair and equitable water infrastructure – pipes, tanks and troughs – allocations for all groundwater users and that are the responsibility of the water user 15 Properties measure goat damage sets out the rules for managing the take and to maintain, to protect the investment and 16 WILD DOG MANAGEMENT use of this prescribed water. to ensure wise water use. 17 ANIMAL HEALTH The Board funded the Department of Well maintained bores and efficient water Environment, Water and Natural Resources use contribute to maintaining the pressure 18 OUTBACK COMMUNITY to undertake a bore audit in 2013-15. in the GAB. Continued on page 02…

www.nrm.sa.gov.au

1.14 Appendix 3 Summary of targeted briefings and written submissions and Board response

113

ORGANISATION CONTACT COMMENTS BOARD ACTIONS/PROPOSED CHANGES TO DRAFT PLAN MEETINGS Roxby Downs Council Bill Boehm Accepting of the levy rises, will have insignificant impact on town rate payers Nil recommended 23 December 2015 (at $60 from $52). Happy to distribute hard copies of the plan and feedback forms to those who don’t have access to ICT to log issues. SACOME Jason Kuchel  DEWNR’s Corporate Fee charged to Boards is too high – industry Nil recommended by Board. 20 January 2016 levies are being increased to cover higher corporate service fees charged to Boards. Updated data included in Plan  Boards need to demonstrate value for investment based on levy responsive to the Social Impact attracted Statement discussion.  Limited value recognised by industries for their investment through the water levies.  No support ever offered to Oz Minerals to initially access a water supply, cost borne by them therefore the current water levies are difficult for them to bear.  Oz Minerals not being able to take water from the GAB, but receive and pay for an allocation under the WAP?  Discussion re the allocation vs usage issue for users and the risk of losing what they don’t use of their allocation even if they don’t need it.  Issues raised on the exemption of stock and domestic use for levying water and the need for this legislation to be reviewed or lobbied against.  Decision by SACOME to determine what the co‐produced levy will add per barrel of oil (currently at $28 a barrel). Too great a cost rise would halt exploration in the region given the tight margins for industry at this time.  A keenness to strengthen partnerships between SACOME, Industry and NRM in SAAL region was discussed. This should commence with a way to demonstrate the savings and benefits to companies through the existence of SAAL NRMB.

 Discussion about the EconSearch Socio‐Economic Impact Assessment to highlight the level of due diligence applied to the process of arriving at these rates and formula.

SA Conservation Council Jill Woodlands Jeff  The E‐NGO’s are happy to provide broad support for the Boards Amendments made to plan based Nature Conservation Council Foulkes Nicki De proposed levy increases upon recommendations received in Preu  E‐NGO’s want to have more productive discussions with the Boards later letter. (listed below) 20 January 2016 about partnering  Review of the No Species Loss Strategy is a demonstration of positive partnering by DEWNR with the eNGOs  E‐NGOs understand the decisions the Board has made re proposed increases in the levy (had a brief discussion re how this could be nuanced depending on how the land was being used (but no definite position)  No issue with the amounts of the levy and how they are being incrementally applied to land mass/use. Comfortable with the more equitable approach and understand it is necessary.  The Conservation Council and NVC can offer significant support. There is an opportunity to partner less around the agricultural focus as is the case in other regions.  Discussed the collective captive audience that exists through the different eNGOs including Greening Australia and Zoos Australia – how can we work better to get on ground works occurring with the input and involvement of these volunteer bases?  There are opportunities around partnerships in the SAAL region  It would be good to put potential partnership projects in the 'bank' for when a funding opportunity may arise or be created  In the future it is desirable to enable a better understanding of the collective knowledge of eNGOs ‐ including expertise and knowledge of NGO’s plus gaps/blackspots in baseline data  Discussed the importance of monitoring including the Australian Eco‐system Science Council to be able to better measure

effectiveness of NRM activities and plan more appropriately for future needs based on actual data and evidence.  Where is investment working ‐ would the eNGO collective have knowledge of what is working well and where across NRM regions?  Agreed on the importance of regular dialogue ‐ discussed what sort of model of practice that might work that is not burdensome but provides 'a quick shot in the arm'  Disappointed with the loss of ‘Naturelinks’ but recognition that the work continues just under a different series of project names.

Would like to see sustained conservation work in;

 Lake Eyre Basin  Desert Springs GAB  Warburton/Diamintina Channel Country ecological benchmarking  Ranges‐Riches ‐ Bounceback; property action plans in Flinders Ranges at a landscape scale  Pastoral Conservation Stewardship with the aim of conserving areas of high conservation value that are currently poorly represented

Primary Producers SA Rob Kerin  PPSA don’t want to see the NRM levies issue referred to a select Nil direct amendments (Livestock SA) Dean Crabb committee of Parliament – this will leave the process dragging on recommended by Board. with no positive outcomes. 20 January 2016  PPSA would like to see the $40m stated that it costs Government in Commitment by Board to further WPM costs audited and itemised. The $40m figure is unclear and strengthen partnerships with PPSA dates back some years PPSA understands. and Livestock SA – planning  Livestock SA – some pastoralists concerned about rise in levies from underway. $52 to $700  PPSA – the flat rate of $52 is inequitable, $700 is not too much, there are bigger increases in other areas for smaller industry players  Need to use the business planning exercise as an opportunity to sell the work of the NRM Boards in the pastoral community

 The move of PPSA to recommend that a freeze occurs on levies until an independent enquiry occurs, particularly as it pertains to the water planning and management costs.  Mention of the intent of the levy and how it is to be reapportioned back into the local region and that some of the business plans are not adhering to the legislation as it applies to levies.  PPSA have submitted some broad correspondence but a specific response to the SAAL changes has also been submitted for the record.  Pastoralists have been asked to provide their feedback but they are more focused with some changes to the branding rules that this concurrent consultation has not taken priority.  Those SAAL pastoralists that have responded are questioning the validity of the increased levies when not all of their land is necessarily productive.  Other pastoralists wonder what they will get for their money (and do now even with the smaller levy)  Discussion held around how the resources have been apportioned and to date those who have not taken up the programs offered does not detract from the development of them by the board from need and consultation more broadly across the SAAL region. Discussion and distribution of the products that promote and avail landholders to the suite of services on offer.  Issue taken by PPSA to impose the cost recovery of the corporate services on community when boards haven’t been given the option to choose a more affordable option for their corporate service delivery.  Discussion about the opportunities for diversification of industries, tourism, conservation activities in addition to the pastoral productivity agenda which is most well known throughout the region as a heightened value proposition of the work of the SAAL NRMB where landholders aren’t realising value from the SAAL NRMB.

 Discussion about enhancing the partnership between SAAL and Livestock SA and more broadly PPSA and other boards, particularly through the Agriculture and NRM: Working Together 2014‐2017 Plan. Outback Communities Cecelia Woolford All board members had copies of the draft business plan and seemed well Nil made as a result of this meeting. Authority Mark Sutton versed with it. A brief overview on the formula and process undertaken by Small changes adopted in response (Full Board the board to develop the plan was provided after which questions were to letter sent (see below) 20 January 2016 present) raised by members of the OCA Board. Discussions included;  A broader understanding of the co‐produced water – what it was, why it was levied  Were SA Water license holders?  What was the arrangement with Water license for Marree?  What the impact be on the residents of the OCA and potential other levies that may be incurred by those same residents and the EconSearch Socio‐Economic Assessment that informs the level of impact.  The general sentiment that local activity results in communities being satisfied with paying an NRM levy.  A general sentiment that the equitable approach where towns‐ people paid the least and productive leaseholds paid the most was fair and consistent with the uptake of NRM services.  The need to increase the public profile of the NRM work so that people recognise the value they are getting for their levy.  The likely impact for people who had contiguous parcels of land as far as the levy payment/cost, particularly where they are across different NRM regions. Member For Stuart Dan van Holst The following sentiments were conveyed; The changes listed adjacent are Pellekaan  Per a letter he had forwarded to Steph Key (and then on‐forwarded included in the updated and re‐ 22 January 2016 to SAAL), Chair of the Parliamentary NRC, he was opposed to a levy formatted draft. rise above what CPI would be.

 Supportive of the great work across SAAL and understood the rationale for the change in levies from a flat rate to a rate proportionate with land size and tenure but that the cost recovery measures by government remained the issue from his perspective. Direct feedback was offered to the writing of the plan; This was difficult to change as it is Page 11 directly from the currently endorsed Highly rated the vision. NRM Strategic Plan. ‘Our Targets’ He suggested that dot point 6 is moved to the bottom of the list as industry was above many other targets and was only required to ‘maintain’ when all other targets were to improve. Recommendation that all be ‘improved’ as maintaining is not aspirational as a target, just to achieve the status quo. Page 14 Adopted and changed in plan. Recommended that the 15/16 figures be included in the chart so there is a comparison and therefore visual of the cuts from the actuals of current year to the proposed budget – this would have a greater and clearer impact on the changes from a program perspective. Also recommended that the DEWNR Corporate services charges incrementally change from $532k to the out years (or that a footnote be included that this figure may even reduce as efficiencies improve) Page 16 Adopted and changed in plan. Check the year associated with $411 183 which states 14/15 (should it say 15/16?) If not, that demonstrates a 14% increase incrementally over two years as opposed to a 28% increase in just one year. All wondered if this was a typo or included in the absence of a 15/16 figure until very late in 2015. Page 22 Adopted and changed in plan. Recommend that the latest updated version of the Social Impact Statement data (7/1/16) be incorporated here which is devised upon this actual levy model (whereas the current draft was based upon a range of different models which does not include this beneficiary pays model the board landed on) Modified in plan to reflect later Re‐write the 3.7 with what the actual results would be for the households, impact assessment results. commercial and industrial businesses and primary production, Mining etc or

out less info in with a disclaimer that the impacts “thought to be minimal/moderate XXX are still being analysed to determine actual impacts upon each levy payer……” Supportive feedback and advice offered for the presentation of the plan by Stuart and Janet Brook to the NRM Committee on 11/3/16. Page 23 Review ‘Regional Impact’ on the basis of proposed changes to page 22. Reviewed and changed.

OCA Board and Ferguson OCA Board Offered supporting feedback to the plan in general but commented on Updated specific deliverables in Consulting. Member following; Plant and Animal Management Flinders Ranges  There was no mention of camels in the pest plant and animal section. (which also omits horses) 20 January 2016 Levy Payer ‐ management section on Page 13.  No mention specifically of Buffel Grass in weed control reference – which she considers a substantial fire risk in the rangelands if it takes hold Regional Development Jen Cleary (Chair) Upon familiarising with the process and rationale for the Board’s decisions in Pursue ongoing partnership Australia – Far North Claire Wiseman this plan the following comments were offered; opportunities. (CEO)  Acknowledged significant cuts undertaken already by board ($350K) 5 February 2016  Acknowledged ‘no win’ situation with cost recovery measures along with trying to be the compliance and regulatory as well as capacity building entity across the region.  Recommended a change in ‘language’ in engaging stakeholders and landholders in how the board brings them along the NRM process. ‘Image management’, perceptions of NRM and what SAAL does.  Reflected on previous reviews undertaken of key priorities of SAAL NRM where ‘grass roots NRM’ with community was still the most important focus area.  Reflections on the shortcomings of the NRM Act.  Questions around Iron Knob and Andamooka and the levy payment refusers. Acknowledged ongoing issues.  Discussion around the sense and intent of focusing on social, economic and environmental outcomes which is inherently the way

NRM operates but lends itself to strong partnerships with RDA and OCA for all future planning and activity.  Acknowledgement that so much of the economic growth driven by RDA has strong sustainability and environmental imperatives and outcomes.  Identified and understood from community the backlash given so much of the levy raised goes into services rather than the visible on ground activity of old.  Discussion about ongoing partnership with RDA and finding projects that achieve economic and environmental outcomes for all.  Commitment by RDA to support the messaging of NRM and dispel issues among community through providing informed responses to community re the NRM services and levy rates.

WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS NAME/ORGANISATION DATE/METHOD KEY POINTS BOARD ACTIONS/PROPOSED CHANGES Stefan Bilka – Chair 29 December  Levy payment issues in non‐incorporated areas Letter of response Andamooka Progress and 2015  Non‐proportionate spending in local region (compared to levies Taken under advisement by board Opal Miners Assn. Letter paid) Biosecurity Team have made contact  Cactus, Pigeon and Cat issues = conservation concerns with Stefan. Contractor already  Desired action planning with community to reallocate levy raised controlling buffel grass and cactus back to specific local activity around township. OCA advised of pigeons and cats by SAAL Biosecurity team. AL Sheehan (formerly of) 1 January 2016  Contact details to be changed Letter of response Moolawatana Station – Letter  Cost pressures on land competing with levy rises No changes adopted. Leigh Creek  Little return for levy now. Grace Jennings – SA Water 7 January 2016  Seeking equitable outcome for community in rising water and NRM Consideration by board. Letter levies. A response is being developed  Rise of SA Water contribution to levy – 2.5% centrally by DEWNR to address the  Community concern on cost of living pressures issues raised in this letter, a generic letter sent to all Boards proposing

 SA Water customers paying twice changes from central rather than  Review 3.7 of business plan SAAL. Primary Producers SA 8 January 2016  Cost recovery issue, inability to determine corporate services Letter of response Rob Kerin –Chair PPSA Letter independently Acknowledged by Board that there is Fiona Rasheed –Chair NRM  Direct contact with DEWNR re WPM breakdown costs ($40m) a broader conversation occurring Committee PPSA  Independent review recommended of WPM in line with NWI between PPSA and DEWNR and an  Loss of good will in rural communities given cost recovery measures independent inquiry has been  Less input by community into levy reallocation, not transparent recommended by PPSA.  Spending needing to be directly linked costs incurred and levies raised  Concerns re many large users of water not paying (forestry) Mr TA Roberts – Levy payer 1 January 2016  Acknowledges increases over time Letter of response Yunta  Acknowledges help offered to the arid communities Biosecurity team arranging delivery  Request for I litre roundup for spraying weeds at Yunta property of 1L of roundup.  Cheque enclosed for current levy period. (15/16) Cecelia Woolford – Chair 28 January 2016  Thanks for personal presentation to board on 20/1/16 Nil action required. Outback Communities Letter  Commendation on boards extensive communication and Authority engagement strategy  Highlight of future working relationship between SAAL and OCA James Morgan 1 February 2016  NRM Group structure still new in NEP and flawed Letter of response The Mutooroo Pastoral  Pastoral Board does what SAAL does not. Nil direct changes to plan in Company  Levy rise unfair, no value for money response. Outalpa Station  Carrying State government deficit through increase in levy  Further cuts to service seem imminent despite rise in levy  Objection to raising levy to pay treasury. Barbara Fels 3 February 2016  % increase of levies Janet Brook has responded with an Motpena Station Email  No increase of on ground works for additional levy expected email letter (5/2/16)  Role of NRM? Never visited, more consultation and interaction Consideration and discussion by desired Board  % of monies raised going to on ground vs hierarchies?

Greg Emmett – Coward 3 February 2016  Unreasonable increase in levy – greater than CPI Letter of response Springs Campground – Email  Compliance work re tourist business paying the apt levy, ie Consideration by Board. Oodnadatta pastoralists running tourist developments. Kay Fels 5 February 2016  Lack of on‐ground works vs admin and HR costs Letter of response Merna Mora Station Letter  Misleading info re biteback (funded by SIF and AWI) Consideration by board.  Community group funding? Inclusion of more specific outcomes  Feral animal control lacking at local and regional level re feral animal control and other  Preference to pay for works in lieu of paying levy achievements by the SAAL NRM  No benefits seen through NRM in recent years. Board within the business plan. Geoff Power – President 5 February  Request for freeze on any levy increases state wide Letter of response. Livestock SA Letter  Board to take note of the financial duress of many landholders given Continue to strengthen partnership drought conditions between SAAL NRMB and Livestock  Congratulations to SAAL NRMB on its efforts to promote SA. productivity and sustainability among landholders  In principle support for the larger properties paying more  Suggests that tenure should not define levy amount (tourism and pastoral are same formula)  Recommends consultation with Pastoral Board about even more equitable tiered system than the one proposed  Suggests rolling all levies into one levy rather than multiple levies – whole of government approach  Cost benefit analysis desired to show value for NRM levy  Question of comparison to on ground activity vs administration  Appreciation by recent personal consultation with SAAL members and staff.  Highly values close and good working relationship with SAAL in particular on drought funding, water infrastructure and wild dog control Cecelia Woolford – Chair 8 February 2016  Significant increase in levy concerning – regional feedback to OCA Letter of response Outback Communities Letter  Urges SAAL to investigate all other funding sources before imposing Discussion and consideration by Authority increased levy board.

 Water levy increases – levy cannot be imposed for domestic Board satisfied that other funding purposes yet levy for town water proposed opportunities had been exhausted  20% increase for an essential service (water for domestic purposes) prior to levy rise. is too high (given stock incurs no cost) Clear commitment to partner with  Critical that levies reinvested back into local communities – seeking OCA as with RDA to work together to value for money. address local feedback.  Commends SAAL NRM on its communication strategies. Inclusion of more outcomes inserted in plan to make NRM spend more ‘visible’ Andamooka Citizen 8 February 2016  Unhappy with all proposed levy rises Noted by Board – no return address. Letter  Andamooka water undrinkable so purchases water at Roxby (anonymous)  Low income no means to pay more  No employment, no value in properties, no extra anywhere. AJ & PA McBride Limited 8 February 2016  Thanks to SAAL NRM for the manner in which consultation has been Letter of response. Letter conducted, particularly in comparison to other boards. Consideration by board in light of  States that NRM is for public good, not just individual and that the current legislative constraints board is considering many options available to it. limiting potential at this time to  Suggests further cost cutting suggestions of removing the corporate respond to specific services imperative and enabling boards to partner to undertake recommendations. private tender options  Board should give serious consideration to amalgamating with Dog Acknowledgement of Board on the fence Board and pastoral board given management of same land significant effort and solutions mass. focused response from this  Recommended combining all levies raised through local government respondent. collects to minimise administrative burden and costs  Even more equity applied given vast difference in land size and therefore productivity within the tiers identified – sliding scale.  Recommends better administrative collaboration between NRMB and Pastoral Board and that all pastoral leases should be managed within SAAL rather than SAMDB given some properties are on the fringe.

Dr Nigel Long 8 February 2016  Acknowledges the good work of the Board and RCTs. Acknowledges Letter of response. SACOME Letter the challenges facing the board. Nil recommended changes to plan.  Concerns re the raise in the water levy and the co‐produced levy now generated as a result of the removal of the exemption on co‐ produced water.  Poor timing of levy rise on the current market prices and industry challenges.  Predominantly 3 mining companies will generate the majority of the increased levies.  Levy on co‐produced water is in addition to costs not ordinarily borne by other industries or private users.  Co‐produced water is re‐used responsibly for drilling and other manufacturing operations, saving millions of litres of water not extracted from the GAB.  Disappointed with lack of consultation with industry on the change in regulation now allowing the levying of co‐produced water  Sovereign risk is a potential issue with SA being ranked lower on a global market scale  Considers it to be unreasonable for DEWNR to impose corporate services costs on boards.  Considers the legislation is at odds with the NWI given pastoral use of water is exempt given the impactor pays basis of the NWI.  Considers the board could make significant savings by seeking private tenders for corporate services, increasing local jobs and reducing levy rates from those proposed. Neil Gibbins 8 February 2016  Disapproval of the current water levy rises and the introduction of a Letter of Response. Beach Energy Letter levy on co‐produced water. Nil recommended changes to plan.  Oil and gas industry already provides significant financial contributions to SA through royalties in the region, environmental offsets.

 Beach contributed $30 million in royalty payments to SA in the last financial year as well as supporting communities with sponsorship and employment opportunities.  Identified extremely challenging market currently impedes business growth with additional expenses imposed on industry at this time.  Would have sought to engage the Treasurer with earlier knowledge of this matter than the letter from SAAL NRMB. Mr Bob Fulker 8 February 2016  OZ Minerals (Prominent Hill)currently raises well over 50% of the Letter of response. Oz Minerals Ltd Letter water levy revenue for the SAAL Board Nil recommended changes.  Believes it is disproportionate given the investment of over $70 Board acknowledges the critical million in developing a water source the Arckaringa Basin by Oz nature of its partnership with Oz. Minerals to demonstrate no impact on GAB  Oz Minerals has ongoing commitment of $250k per year to monitoring and management of the industrial water source  Oz believes an equitable application of the levy is required that takes into account the scientific outcome that the region is aiming to achieve  Is a strong partner with SAAL through Kingoonya membership, and traditional owner partnerships, government and pastoralists all working together, values this partnership.  Requests that no raise in water levy is taken beyond CPI as part of this plan. Chris Abell February 2016  Considers the SAAL NRMB is a bureaucracy and is no longer capable Letter of response. Tepco Station Feedback Form of meeting the intent of its existence and should be closed down.  Refers to other entities doing the work through Pastoral Board, MLA and AWI who are all capable of securing $ to undertake NRM in the Arid Lands without the impost being placed on landholders many ineligible of drought relief etc to pay increasing costs to keep them going.  Believes SAAL NRMB is no longer viable and should be disbanded. Douglas Lillecrapp 8 February  Believes the proposed tiered levy system is fair and acknowledges Letter of response. Todmorden Feedback Form the greater access and say in NRM of the larger landholders

 Expects a greater say if more is paid  Unimpressed with the loss of the local NRMO  Considers Board is driven and controlled by DEWNR and it will eventually collapse if community lose input and impact. Nicki de Preu 8 February 2016  Welcoming of the opportunity to work in close partnership with Letter of response. Nature Conservation Society Letter SAAL and applauds the targets and current focus of SAAL plan Inclusion of MATS and outcomes of SA  Commends the board on, partnership arrangements to support against previous plan inserted in regional priorities, recognising importance of Climate Change, draft plan. ( ‘On Track’ reporting district group model, maintenance of current funding levels for data.) functioning ecosystems Board undertaking a Partnerships  Seeks clarity in business plan around science based decision making Program which will ensure ongoing  Encourages board to include summary table of current status of work with NCS. progress in relation to MATs within this business plan timeframe  Strong support for ongoing and future support of MERI and desires that this is maintained come what may.  Concern for substantial reduction in the goals relating to Functioning Ecosystems, Sustainable Use programs ( land and water) and Active Communities program over the term of the plan  Commends board for transparent approach to explaining the cost recovery matter for WPM  Strongly recommends future investment in the research into waterbird populations dependent on the current ecosystems.  Recommend monitoring and further attention be placed on monitoring cane toad threats to SAAL. Recommend partnerships and funding to develop monitoring systems.  Commends board for significant attraction of federal funding but also recommends pursuit of philanthropic and private sector funding opportunities given the uncertainty with state and commonwealth funding  Supportive of the equitable levy structure against land size  Strongly recommend a list of priority projects that have been identified by the district groups

14  Appreciated the opportunity to meet with board and staff members recently to discuss the plan and direction of SAAL  Strongly recommend that an open forum for stakeholders in SAAL business based in Adelaide be held to continue consulting with SAAL on its future or potential priorities with other partners and interest groups Conservation Council SA 9 February 2016  Acknowledges the pressure on the board and commends the level of Letter of Response. Letter consideration put into the plan Commitment to future partnerships  Commends the strong emphasis on partnerships and climate change through new Partnerships Program  Recommends the board communicates the unique biodiversity of SAAL NRMB. through the plan  Ensure ‘ no species lost’ strategy remains high priority Inclusion of outcomes data (progress  Recommends management of land conservation purposes is against MATs) within the plan from included On Track as recommended.  A strong focus on surveys and research should be a focus to create an inventory to inform planning and address data and knowledge gaps about the biodiversity assets in the region.  Would like a summary of progress against MATs in the plan  Board should continue to fund statutory obligations through the increase to levy and proposed CPI increase in the out years.  List priority projects of district Groups Jennifer Entjes 9 February 2016  Introducing selves to SAAL as Coal Seam Gas (Pedirka Basin (8 Letter of response. Tri‐Star Petroleum Email petroleum license applications)) No direct changes made to plan.  Concerns re co‐produced water levy  Producers should be encouraged to re‐use co‐produced water  Other states do not apply levies on co‐produced water  Continual increases to the water levy for CPW may render projects commercially unfeasible  As last resort, cap co‐produced water levy at $5000.

15 1.15 Appendix 4: Online feedback and Board response

129 SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Online survey feedback Date Is the proposed investment If not, what concerns do you have and how Would you like to raise anything else? Would you like a If yes, please provide I am a member of... Do you live in Do you own Do you hold a BOARD ACTION of available funds should these be addressed? representative of your name, a phone (please tick all that the SA Arid or lease land water license in appropriate? the Board to number and the best apply) Lands region? in the the Far North contact you about time to contact you. region? Prescribed your concerns? Your personal details Wells Area? will not be shared.

2/08/2016 Yes Whilst I agree with the statement on Page No Tony Williams Williams Pastoral industry Yes Yes Yes Email response by PM, 20 of the report in relation to a land levy Cattle Co, Mt Barry acknolwedged by Board based on rateable land in a beneficiary Station pays principle,I feel very strongly that a jump from $52 to $700 in one go is excessive. I also feel that there would be scope for more increments on property size and rates, not just the 3 amounts. Our company owns 5 pastoral leases around Oodnadatta. Would this count as multiple allotments of a single enterprise or would we be required to pay 5 X $700.

02/07/2016 Not sure Proposed expenditure is obviously, and Many pastoralists contribute funds to the No Pastoral industry, Yes Yes No Noted by Board, considered rightly, targeted towards conservation and work of SAAL NRM through other bodies, tourism industry, worthy of a conversation land management initiatives. The proposed such as the sheep industry fund which conservation group that is more broadly levy increase is based on the assumption supports Biteback. This should be taken member applicable to partnerships in that landholders benefit most from these into consideration. It is also important to the future. Nil changes projects, but it is in fact the whole of the note the future OCA levy. Government made to plan at this time.. community who benefits, including the Crown should consider "bundling" levies for ease (from who a pastoralist leases their property). of administration and to save costs in levy Community engagement is a significant collection. The NRM levy, OCA levy, dog component of the investment and this is not fence rates and pastoral rent could be only targeted towards landholders. For combined, allowing better transparency example, a profitable tourism business might and accountability. Government needs to own small premises in the outback, but be be clear to outback residents about the conducting scenic flights over large tracts of future strategy to fund roads, larger NRM land. Therefore, their levy will be small but projects, etc. The proposed increase in their benefit great, which is inequitable NRM levies, certainly in the case of SAAL, compared to a medium sized lessee should be delayed until Government has recovering from drought, whose business consulted on its long-term outback might be less profitable. management strategy. Current situation is unsustainable and continues to be reactive rather than proactive.

02/06/2016 No We are quite concerned that very little of the As price takers not price setters No Pastoral industry, Yes Yes No funds actually make it onto the ground and farmers/graziers are again told (not tourism industry are eaten up in a very top heavy asked) to foot the bill to keep to many overmanaged system the very thing that nrm unnecisary people in government was supposed to be superseeding. We are departments in jobs in a way extremly dissapointed with what the saal nrm overgoverned/overmanaged department. has become from what was propsed with the 1.To many people try be important to keep steering committee a few short years ago. a way overpaid job for onground gain. 2.Very little help from what few onground/useful staff there. 3.Do not see value for money now rather than with a large increase in yet another government based tax/levy. 4. Wonder where wild dog figures came from when most of the funds came 2 different sheep/wool based INDUSTRY funds. 5.Totaly against any levy increase as again it is to disadvantage those who chose to try and have a go. SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Online survey feedback 02/04/2016 Yes The proposed increase is minor. I'd be No Progress Association Yes Yes No Noted by board. happy to see a higher land levy, providing it was actually spent on program delivery.

02/03/2016 No I do not feel that pastoralists should have to The lack of on ground services in relation No We have already spoken Pastoral industry, Yes Yes No Noted by Board. bear the brunt of government inefficiency. We to administration. to board members re our tourism industry are not a bottomless pool of money and we concerns can't pass on our costs to anyone else unlike government and other industries and businesses. We are already drowning in red tape and costs which only serve to create public service jobs and ultimately make our lives more stressful and create less productivity. 02/03/2016 Not sure Without more information I can't comment, Yes, the business plan says all the right No But I'm happy to discuss Non-government Yes No No noted by Board. Work is but the plan seems to be trying to do too things, but it does not mention macropods. it if necessary. I am on organisation being undertaken with the much, as most do as there are so many They are one of the most threatening the NE NRM group and Kangaroo Harvesting stakeholders. process in the SA Arid lands and there is manager of Guidelines to remedy some no mention of them. I would suggest a Boolcoomatta Station of these matters. major focus be on the reduction of Reserve. Alistair Dermer macropods in sensitive areas, by means on . of concentrating roo shooters to a few properties versus having individual shooters scattered across multiple properties. By adopting this approach numbers would be reduced locally and then shooters move to the next selection of properties. This means there is no need to deal with meat demand or processor issues, the only issue to deal with is taking females.

02/01/2016 Not sure Can not answer because the plan will not A one question survey that does not Pastoral industry, Yes Yes No Noted by Board in reviewing download address the main issue (levy increases) is tourism industry draft of plan. a pointless. If the current funding source can not support NRM in the region there needs to be cuts made to address this as there would be in private enterprise. To be truely fair and to capture all NRM beneficiaries the levy should be tax payer based not house hold based. Many residents and visitors to the region will not be paying a levy

01/27/2016 Not sure But it seems the NRM is trying to be very fair no No Yes Yes No Noted by Board. and equitable in these times that are difficult for most. 01/27/2016 No NRM boards are already bloated and should No downsize No Pastoral industry, Yes Yes No be downsized tourism industry 01/22/2016 Not sure The Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby Yes Kaz Herbst, telephone: Conservation group No Not sure No Letter of response sent by Preservation Association (YFRWPA), - retired, so member PM. having purchased and relinquished the available most of the pastoral lease covering the Bunkers time. Conservation Reserve has tenure of the reserve by "care, control and management" of this Crown land dedicated as a reserve. The YFRWPA is a totally "not for profit" organisation and has very limited capacity to create an income. It is therefore very sensitive to the possibility of being liable for any levies or rates. SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Online survey feedback 01/13/2016 Yes I think it is totally unfair to go on land size to Yes Laura Ragless Beltana Pastoral industry Yes Yes No Letter of response sent by how much we pay. land holders don't things Station PM. available that small towns get. It should be 6 one set fee for everyone no on how big your property is. If you are in a town you are going to get more services like rubbish collection kerbing drainage ect over someone living on a station or farm.

01/07/2016 No The goals that you are aiming to achieve are I find it deplorable that property owners No I don't have any reason Pastoral industry Yes Yes Yes 90% out of everyone’s control and rely on are being informed about this ridiculously for them to contact me. nature it’s self – you cannot change or control inflated increase over the Christmas / New the climate, you can only work with it. With Year festive season. It almost seems that the same pastoral lease being in the family it was done specifically to reduce the for more than 50 years, we are well aware of chance of public feedback. If the fee does the “goals” ourselves and as we plan to keep go ahead, we wish to withdraw our our property in as sustainable, profitable but property from being involved with any natural in condition as possible, for future NRM Board / Area. We pay enough in generations. We know where improvements lease rent, fees, rates and running cost, are needed to reduce any existing problems it’s unmerited to expect us to hand out or possible future problems which we plan more money for a board that has little / for, budget and deal with ourselves. If we nothing to do with the running of our can’t do it or are always looking for handouts, property and business. training in the basics, need to be told when something is a problem, then we should not be here. The act and the increase of the levy are contradictive in that, according to: •The proposed expenditure and investment by Goal/Program will be reduced by $2,547,000.00 over the next few years, but the levy is increasing to cover costs. Obviously, the board is in need of better financial personnel. •The NRM state that they review rates annually, yet it has already been decided that the land and water levy will increaseact and the to aincrease tiered rate of the based levy onare land size Jimmy Smith, Noted by Board in contradictive in that, according to: • The Devonborough Downs delibarations. Some proposed expenditure and investment by . elements raised remain Goal/Program will be reduced by T beyond the influence or $2,547,000.00 over the next few years, but d control of the Board at this the levy is increasing to cover costs. o time but warrant further Obviously, the board is in need of better exploration. financial personnel. • The NRM state that they review rates annually, yet it has already been decided that the land and water levy will increase to a tiered rate based on land size and reflective to the CPI for the next few years. • Administrative efficiency – the basis for determining the levy should ensure that the levy collection and management procedures are undertaken in a manner that minimises costs. How is increasing the levy by nearly 1,250% for all properties, over 100,000ha (anything over 1,000km2), no matter the actual size, number of watering points, holding capacity, stock route points, un-invited tourist, mining, etc, minimising costs? • Data is used from financial models of Census and ABARES (in 2015) to consider the impacts of the NRM levies on people and businesses to analyse Primary Production – SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Online survey feedback the impacts of the NRM levies on people and businesses to analyse Primary Production – earnings before interest and tax (EBIT); What about the other years when little income on no income is made due to drought, succession movement, death in the family, etc? • Regional NRM water levy (Division 2): Section 101 of the NRM Act enables the Minister to declare a water levy or levies to be paid by holders of water licences. This water levy is collected from all water licence holders, yet the PASTORAL LAND MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION ACT states a person may take water from any natural source or storage point on the land, but only so much as is sufficient for his or her personal or domestic needs; and r. • We pay for the formation of a watering point, whether it is a bore or dam, the infrastructure, maintenance, repairs, etc. yet someone else expects to make a profit on something that has never cost them a cent.

12/31/2015 No This "survey" is a great example of my Question 1 comments have covered it, I Yes Jimmy Smith, Pastoral industry Yes Yes No general concern towards the misuse of state think. $52 to $400? Ring me. Devonborough Downs government funds. The HUGE increase in 4. the levy for me as a rich pastoralist is T unforgivable. As a rich pastoralist I am happy d to help support the rest of the country as g much as is possible with my endless wealth. However, I have been a rich pastoralist for only 7 years, and thanks to Mother Nature I have made a loss for each one of those 7 years. Should I have been a rich pastoralist 50 km further east, my drought funding, drought rebates and postponement of all pastoral lease payments for the last 4 years would have helped considerably. Not in sunny South Australia. I`m on my own. I look forward to receiving a return telephone call in regard to this topic of my concern. In this case, it is my NRM levy going from $52 annually to $400. Ring me. I look forward to some discussion.

Note: personal contact details have been removed from the consultation report before online publication 1.16 Appendix 5: Log of phone enquiries

134 SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Stakeholder Date Your name Their inquiry Your response (indicate if NRM Info Y/N Info via Post or Outcomes they were referred Email elsewhere) Keith Slade 18/12/2015 Louise Gavin, North Flinders NRM Group Meeting ‐ Stuart and Jodie Yes Stuart Paul, Believes this is stealing from the rich and explained that if money is Jodie Gregg‐ giving to the poor. Believe actual rate is not raised then at a local Smith equitable but not happy with NRMB having level services will be cut. to raise money for the state Govt. Can't understand why land holders are being held to ransom ‐ pay the levy or services will be cut, further. There could be other ways to raise money, need people to live in the bush. If this increase was in an urban setting you wouldn't do it as it is worth too many votes. Not against NRM or paying $400.

Glenys Aird 18/12/2015 Louise Gavin, North Flinders NRM Group Meeting ‐ Rate Stuart explained it is Yes Stuart Paul, increase is an impost and concerned how we sometimes at great Jodie Gregg‐ make people pay. Can see there is no expense that costs are Smith consequence for not paying the levy. recovered. DEWNR has a mechanism of cost recovery Brendon Bevan 18/12/2015 Louise Gavin, North Flinders NRM Group Meeting ‐ How Agreed Yes Stuart Paul, rate increase is accepted will depend on Jodie Gregg‐ clarity the Board is able to provide around Smith what levy is paying for. A better description will mean less chance of negative response.

Dion Robins 18/12/2015 Louise Gavin, North Flinders NRM Group Meeting ‐ How Stuart: 2 levies. You may Yes Stuart Paul, many levies will be paid if you have property have to negotiate to only Jodie Gregg‐ in 2 NRM Regions? pay 1 if the property is Smith the one property and crosses an NRM boundary Colleen Dunn 23/12/2015 Di Grantham Made an inquiry what is the levy for the year Took details ‐ someone Yes 1) Phoned Catherine could of 2015/2016 certificate title:5770/829 to call her. not speak to her as travelling Ref:P833901T for David Walton. back from Adelaide so sent Catherine a email with the enquiry.2) Catherine advise me to follow up I have sent an email to Michelle Finch to follow up. 3) Now has been completed spoke to Colleen and gave her the 2015/2016 Levy costing. SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Greta Howard‐ 23/12/2015 Di Grantham Would like to know NRM levy on land sizes Took detaisl ‐ someone Yes 1) Phoned Catherine could Spreadborough and can she claim pensioner consession to call her not speak to her as travelling rates. back from Adelaide so sent Catherine a email with the enquiry. 2) Catherine followed up to be told by Colleen had been assisted with her enquiry and no longer needed to discuss with Catherine.

Barry Moyses 23/412/2015 Michelle Concern that levy has gone from $6.50 to Took details ‐ left a Smith $60 and he gets no return for this levy. It is message on Janet Brook's just a block of land in Tarcoola, there is no answering machine future in Tarcoola, the town has been dead (23/12 @ 2.09pm) for for a long time. He's paid his taxes for a long Janet to phone him. time. Cant sell the block as no‐one wants it. Note he is also going to contact Minister Hunter as well. David Huntley 24/12/2015 Sam Butler David was calling because he has received a Took details and said that 14/01/2016 Kristy Veljkovic letter about an Andamooka lease that he no I would pass them on, he called David Huntley to get longer is a part of, he was taken off of it said he works away and more information on what about 4 years ago ‐ he was hoping to get signal is a little sketchy the invoice was that he some more information on this and confirm but if you leavea received was. He had no idea that he doesn’t need to pay any money message he will get back as it wasn't sent direct to him. to you David was flying out for work on the 18th Jan for work, will try to get the information and call back. 05/02/2016 Kristy Veljkovic left a message for him to call back as no response has been received. 08/02/2016 Have left a message for Davisd to give Crowm lands a call to see if his name has been taken of the property and only in Lisa Huntley name‐new mailing addresss is 9 Genereal Drive, Paralowie SA 5108 for Lisa Huntley.Have let Shane Coghlan know in Crown Lands to expect a call from David SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Russell Speed 4/01/2016 Di Grantham Russell Speed phoned as he needs a hard Russell needs a hard copy Yes Post Hard copy sent in the post copy of the Business Plan sent as he has no of the NRM Business Plan 4/1/2016 access to the internet or printer. as has no access to internet or printer.

Nathan Weffling 4/01/2016 Di Grantham Nathan Weffling phoned as he needs a hard Nathan needs a hard Yes Post Hard copy sent in the post copy of the Business Plan sent as he has no copy of the NRM 4/1/2016 access to the internet or printer. Business Plan as has no access to internet or printer John Hubner 4/01/2016 Sam Butler wanted the information pack that was Sent him an information post mention in the letter ‐ also looking for any pack, sent 1 copy of on brochers that state what the NRM actually track as that was all I are and what they do ‐ was hoping to get a could find few copies to distribute

Yelena Heinjus 4/02/2016 Jodie Gregg‐ • 4/2/16 JGS ‐Received a phone call from Smith Yelena Koerner‐Heinjus from SACOME who requested a 1 week extension on the consultation period for SACOME to submit their letter while they still try to engage stakeholders. She was advised that the maximum period had been set aside and the board would be meeting the immediate next two days which would mean her letter would not be considered in session. It would be noted post the consultation period, out of session – however it would not influence any recommendations as they would be determined on Wednesday 10th February.

Lynne Turbitt 5/01/2016 Melanie would like name corrected on letter (was Took details of new No nil Database need to delete Boxall Estate of PJ Turbutt) ‐ this needs to be addressee. She asked reference to Estate of PJ corrected (has requested on numerous what the changes were Turbitt and replace with occasions previously but nothing has been and I advised her house Lynne Turbitt (currently spelt done). levy would increase by Turbut) on letter CPI, but this would affect those with larger land holdings so they paid more than the current levy which was the same as what she was paying. She was happy with that. SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Alex Clarke 6/01/2016 Di Grantham Senex Would like to have a chat to someone Wiil get some one from No Janet Brook contacted Alex concerning the changes the NRM Water the NRM Board to give Senex relating to Co‐produced Policy"s for the Cooper Basin region. Needs Alex a call. water and how the exemption more understnding. had been lifted, thet minister holds license, and DSD would be covering in the first year (unknown after then), Land based levies are only paid by leaseholders. (JGS)

John Wilkinson 6/01/2016 Melanie Not happy that his NRM levy is proposed to Took details and said I No nil Called Janet and discussed his Boxall increase from $52 to $700 in 16/17. Says it is would get a Board land size (1182 km2 in total ‐ "bloody ridiculous" and they can "stick it Member to call him to Hesso and Kootaberra). She where it hurts". He is ropable, and then discuss. will call John apologised to me for the way he spoke. Would like to talk to a Board member.

Voulos(Paul) 6/01/2016 Di Grantham Has received the letter refering to the NRM Took details and said I Yes nil 1)Will call Paul to let her know Ketouoi Levy costing of rates and was confused would get back to her to that she does not have to pay which one to pay. clarify.(She was very hard at the moment and they are to understand). the costings for the next 3 years. A invoice will be sent to her to pay (about May/June). 2) Have phoned and left a message for Paul to give me a call 6/1/2016. 3)Spoke to her an advised an invoice will be sent in May/June. What she had received was the letter regarding the increase. 12/01/2016

Debroah Allen 8/01/2016 Di Grantham Received letter of the NRM @ wrong To update system of No Have given the info to address. change of address to new Michelle Murphey to change address: PMB 10, Darwin 11/01/2016 NT 0801 Digbey Morris 11/01/2016 Di Grantham Received letter of the NRM and would like to To update system : to No Have given the info to be taken off the mailing list as know longer remove from mailing list Michelle Murphey to change has the property (Address is Lot 796, no longer has the 11/01/2016 Andamooka SA). propery Mirlis Soukut 11/01/2016 Di Grantham Received letter of the NRM and would like to To update system : to No Have given the info to be taken off the mailing list as client is remove from mailing as Michelle Murphey to change deceasesd (Address is Lot 212, Government client is deceased. 11/01/2016 Road, Magil SA 5722). SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Frances Frahn 15/01/2016 Melanie Received letter. It was sent to Accountant, To update system : from No Database change required ‐ to Boxall and they are seeking to have this sent direct C/‐ William Buck SA ‐ be picked up from this form. to them. please send direct to Holowiliena Station via CARRIETON SA 5432.

Wendy Campbell 18/01/2016 Michelle Letter was sent to 44 Fullarton Road, Will change this information Murphy Norwood, which is the address of the on the sheet being prepared. property manager of her other properties. Mail for this property should not be sent there. Please ensure future mail for this property is sent to 4 Teal Court, Mawson Lakes, 5095. She is not certain that the Lot Number quoted is correct.

Peter Bevan 19/01/2016 Michelle Received letter. Confused about the wording Murphy of a 10ha block. He only has a standard 1/4 acre block, as do most of the people in Iron Knob and there is a lot of confusion in the town over the wording. I assured him the $60 fee is the fee due for any property smaller in size than 10 ha He was happy Mark Hatlie 25/01/2016 Di Grantham To update system of change of address from To update system of No Have given the info to old address: PO Box 322, Andamoocka SA change of address to new Michelle Murphey to change 5722 to to new address: 48 Hermit Street, address: 48 Hermit 25/01/2016 Roxby Downs SA 5725 Street, Roxby Downs SA 5725 Nick Rasheed 19/01/2016 Louise Gavin North East Pastoral NRM Group Meeting ‐ I think everyone understands where the Board is coming from. We are paying the extra levy, so we don't want to see all of the people (staff) who can help us go if the people above aren't also cut.

Richard Williams 19/01/2016 Louise Gavin North East Pastoral NRM Group Meeting ‐ I can see why it's happening, I don't think we should be happy about it. I don't see anything will change. The Govt is shooting themselves in the foot with this. The amount they are saving, where does it stop?

Andamooka 8/02/2016 Di Grantham Letter received from an Andamooka Citizen‐ Passed onto Stuart Paul Passed onto Stuart Paul and Citezen no name or contact details complaing of the registered to the incoming NRM Levy charges. NRM mail‐8/02/2016 SA Arid Lands Draft Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19 Phone call enquiries log

Mr Rrapsey 8/02/2016 Kristy Mr Rapsey phoned on behalf of his brother To update system : to Have given the info to (Brother) Veljkovic Brian Rapsey (deceased) to inform us to remove from mailing as Michelle Murphey to change remove his name from the mailing list which client is deceased. 08/02/2016 is Box 77, Andamooka SA 5722 ‐as he has passed away for 2 years now.

Sharon Stringer 8/02/2016 Di Grantham Received a cheque for the sum of $60.00 and Retuned cheque for the Post Retuned cheque for the sum returned NRM Business Plan Letter as sum of $60.00 and of $60.00 and returned NRM thought it was a tax invoice. returned NRM Business Business Plan Letter with an Plan Letter with an expalation letter informing expalation letter not a tax invoice and that informing not a tax invoices will be sent invoice and that invoices May/June 2016 on the will be sent May/June 08/02/2016. Note: personal contact details have been removed for the public version of the consultation report