2. Objective & Scope

The objective of this study is to outline the involvement of local government in the development of water enhancement projects to date, and to identify the benefits and issues associated with various types of involvement. The investigation will review the basis that local government might currently use for prioritising investment, investment capability, exit strategies, and constraints imposed by legislation and regulation.

The scope of our work, as outlined in the terms of reference for this study, will be to address the following questions:

What are the benefits and issues for local government investment and support for large water enhancement projects involving irrigation development as a major component?

How robust is the proposition that the development of these enhancement projects involving irrigation introduces considerable social and economic benefits to local communities by way of increased annual expenditure in local areas, and renewal of rural communities driven by age and population changes?

What has been the experience and rational of Council investments, particularly in regard to long-term investments?

What is the current basis for prioritising investment?

What has been the experience of large-scale irrigation developments on the need for and financing of additional supporting infrastructure that is the responsibility of Council?

What are the constraints under current and likely future Council legislation and regulations to investment, management or ownership options in these projects?