Role of CMAs
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The role of the CMAs includes:
- to ensure the sustainable development of natural resource based industries
- to maintain and where possible improve the quality of land and water resources
- to conserve natural and cultural heritage
- to involve the community in decisions relating to natural resource management within their Region
- to advise on matters relating to catchment management and land protection and the condition of land and water resources in the Region
- to promote community awareness and understanding of the importance of land and water resources, their suitable use, conservation and rehabilitation
Catchment Management Authorities and Local Government address a number of catchment issues including:
- sustainable regional development
- floodplain management
- protection of native vegetation and fauna
- management of irrigation and dryland salinity
- sustainable land management practices, including construction sites
- pest plant and animal control
- rural-urban fringe issues
- waterway management
They are also the major advisory body to government regarding funding priorities for catchment management.
Waterway Management Role
The Catchment Management Authorities have taken on the role of the previous Waterway Management Authorities under the Water Act 1989.
Catchment Management Authorities have responsibility for the co-ordination and management of floodplains; stormwater runoff and pollution; rural drainage (including regional drainage schemes); water quality and nutrient management; water supply catchment protection; wetlands; restoration of degraded waterways; and Crown frontages and heritage rivers outside of national parks.
Collecting water samples, North Central Catchment Management Area Photo: Waterwatch Victoria
© The State of Victoria, 1996 - 2012.
This document was last reviewed on 13/12/2011