Where is the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, and what makes it so special? Who are the Traditional Owners of the Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment? Who lives around the river, and why is it significant? Why is it important to protect the whole Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment, not just the river channel? Why are flood and drought so important in the Martuwarra Fitzroy River system? Why is groundwater so important to the Martuwarra Fitzroy River? How much surface water and groundwater does the river need to stay healthy? Who takes water from the river and its aquifers, and why? Who controls or manages the catchment area and its water resources? What is the cultural significance of the Martuwarra for Traditional Owners?

Who controls or manages the catchment area and its water resources?

There is no single body that controls every aspect of the catchment. Water resources are managed under Western Australian law (including the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914) through the State’s water planning and licensing system. Importantly, Traditional Owners remain the custodians of Country and play a central role.  

Kimberley Traditional Owners and the Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council have called for stronger shared governance, including co-design of water governance arrangements and partnerships that can help deliver a formal decision-making role for Traditional Owners. The Kimberley Land Council (KLC), on behalf of the Traditional Owner Working Group, make clear through 61 Recommendations that management should not rest only with the government and should be shared with the people who hold cultural authority and responsibility for the Martuwarra. 

The WA Government is accepting public submissions until June 30th on its draft water plan that will shape the future of the Martuwarra for generations.

Have Your Say

Want to stay up to date on the Martuwarra?