The Save the River Murray Levy will fund South Australia’s contribution to an agreement with NSW, Victoria and the ACT - and the Commonwealth - to commit $500 million over five years to improving the health of this vital waterway.
This funding will be used to begin a long- term program to return billions of litres of water to the river.
SA’s contribution to this project is $13 million per year, which will be paid for with money raised through the levy.
Why do I have to pay?
The health of the River Murray is vital to all Australians, but particularly so for South Australians.
While many communities rely specifically on the River Murray for their water resources, there are broader benefits to the whole State. The river contributes to the economic survival of the State.
How will it be used?
Funds generated by the Save the River Murray Levy will be used to improve the long-term health of the river.
Water returned to the river will be directed towards improving the health of six significant ecological assets across the Basin, including in SA:
-
The Chowilla Floodplain - an important river wetland site and home to significant river redgums
-
The Murray Mouth-Coorong and Lower Lakes - to keep the Murray Mouth open, provide conditions for fish spawning and maintain this important bird habitat
-
The River Channel - to enhance habitats for fish along the entire length of the river.
Funds will also be used to develop an SA River Murray Environmental Flows Strategy and a range of other projects.
How is the Save the River Murray Levy being collected?
SA Water is collecting the Save the River Murray levy on behalf of the Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation.
The levy is billed on SA Water accounts and does not apply to customers who receive a concession on their water rates.
How much do not for profit organisations have to pay?
If not for profit organisations can demonstrate they are incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1985 they will be classified as Category 1. Category 1 incurs a lower levy of $8.60 per quarter in 2008/09 (opposed to the Category 2 levy of $38.65 per quarter in 2008/09).
How does a not for profit organisation apply for Category 1?
If you think your not for profit organisation can apply for the Category 1 levy, you will need to provide evidence of being incorporated under the provisions of Associations Incorporation Act 1985. This will require a copy of the certificate of incorporation provided by the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs at the time of incorporation. Alternatively, a duplicate certificate can be obtained from the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs for a nominal fee. Write to SA Water at Box 1751, GPO Adelaide SA 5001, enclosing the evidence of incorporation.