Action item 7.9

Progress

100%

Complete.
Approved by decision makers.
Recommendation implemented.

That prior to the grant of any further exploration approvals, the reinjection of wastewater into deep aquifers and conventional reservoirs and the reinjection of treated or untreated wastewaters (including brines) into aquifers be prohibited, unless full scientific investigations determine that all risks associated with these practices can be mitigated.

Target completion date

Completed.

Reform area
Safeguarding water and the environment
Project action
Assessing, protecting and monitoring water resources
Lead agency
Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security

Action item update

Implementation

Amendments to the Water Act 1992 commenced on 19 June 2019 to stipulate that authorisation cannot be given for the reinjection of hydraulic fracturing waste into aquifers.