Ombudsman’s Inquiry on water savings projects
February 17, 2011
Locals have a chance to shape a better future for water authorities and water efficiency projects by sharing their past experiences with the Victorian Ombudsman.
Upon directive from the State Government, the Ombudsman will be conducting an inquiry into the development and implementation of water saving projects in northern Victoria.
Dr Sharman Stone, Federal Member for Murray, said the findings of the inquiry will be an important guide to ensure the next $1 billion from the Federal Government is not wasted and that we learn from the experience of the first stage of the Foodbowl Modernisation Project roll out.
“I have been calling for a Royal Commission into government water projects and organisations such as Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Project and Goulburn Murray Water, for a very long time.
“There is a lot to be learnt from past cost blow outs, adhoc non-strategic thinking, poor management and operations, dishevelled governance structures and broken promises.
“We must ensure that our irrigators have the best run, most cost effective systems.
“The State Coalition promised this inquiry before the State election, and have immediately announced its commencement. The Ombudsman’s inquiry will have the same powers as a Royal Commission.
“He will set his own terms of reference for this inquiry and will investigate in particular the Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Program and any other water management issues and conflicts of interest.
“The good news is that submissions will remain anonymous so people should have no concern that their submissions may affect their dealings with the organisations involved.
“The more constructive feedback, positive and negative, the ombudsman receives, the better placed the new Coalition Government will be to ensure the mistakes of the past Labor Government will not be made again.
“We deserve a world class system of irrigation water delivery and management with appropriate pricing. We need an urgent overhaul,” Sharman Stone said.
People should call the Ombudsman’s office on 1800 806 314 or can make a complaint online at www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au/www/html/215-complaint-form.asp
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