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The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation is responsible for managing the state's water resources. By issuing licences and permits under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (RIWI), the Department protects the state's water resources and promotes the sustainable and efficient use of water. RIWI licensing is active in all proclaimed areas and for all artesian groundwater wells throughout the state.

While domestic water occupies most people's attention, the reality is that more than 80 per cent of the state's water is used for irrigated agriculture, mining, services, industry and parks.

Good management of Western Australia's water is fundamental to the state's prosperity.

We support Western Australia's growth and development by managing the availability and quality of water sustainability, now and for the future.

In our variable climate, it's a big challenge to find water sources that support population growth and state development, meet environmental needs and balance economic, community and cultural benefits.

To meet this challenge we:

• Lead policy development for the best use of the state's water and to provide water services
• Assess and advise on how much water is available for use and the options to meet demand
• Encourage water conservation and promote clever use of alternative water sources
• Manage and make rules for the use of water
• Integrate water planning and land use planning
• Protect and improve water resources
• Work with industry, government and the community to find solutions for better water use
• Provide easy to find information