Water Quality
Marine Algal Bloom: Council Response
Council serves as a primary link between affected communities and higher levels of government and it is important that it plan a structured response. Advocacy ensures that the needs and priorities of impacted industries such as fisheries, tourism, and aquaculture as well as the broader small business sector, are heard in decision-making processes around disaster response, funding, and long-term planning. Without strong local representation, state and federal policies may overlook critical local needs, leading to inadequate support and delayed recovery for those impacted.
It is recommended that Council adopt an initial advocacy platform which includes the following priorities:
Natural Disaster Declaration.
Request the Federal Government declare a natural disaster with financial support offered to facilitate remediation of the current and immediate impacts while also investing in rehabilitation endeavours for the environmental, social and economic impacts that will continue to arise over the medium and long term.
Public Communication.
Regular updates and clear information from official sources that dispel myths and provide reassurance for community and visitors about visiting coastal areas. Including up to date information about those area which are not impacted and are not subject to safety concerns.
Improved Engagement with Local Government.
Engage directly with Councils to ensure that Councils are informed about the short-, medium- and long-term social, economic and environmental impacts as well as remediation and rehabilitation options and opportunities.
Industry Engagement.
Ongoing involvement of industry groups and local businesses in response and recovery planning and implementation.
Emergency financial relief.
Direct financial support for impacted businesses, via simplified application and assessment processes. Including promotion and outreach support to relevant businesses in encourage application.
Scientific Investigation.
Increased official testing and reporting for more of the SA coastline, including the extensive coastline of the Spencer Gulf. National leadership on determining causes and understanding how current and future natural disasters may be prevented or better managed when they occur.
Long-term Tourism Recovery Fund.
Investment in tourism marketing and promotional activities to strengthen South Australia’s nature-based tourism reputation and bring visitors back to the coastal regions impacted.
Council should note that the Administration continues to support the state-led response efforts by:
- sharing public health advice from state agencies;
- facilitating local information sessions;
- liaising with impacted businesses.
Council is also ready to assist by installing beach signage to alert residents and visitors to potential health risks. However, Council should note that signage has not yet been required to be installed on beaches in the Copper Coast.
Water Quality
Water is essential to daily life and can impact on the health and wellbeing of communities. Water is often taken for granted but there are many considerations for ensuring the safe and suitable use of water and the protection of public health. Water quality plays an important role in many areas including the provision of safe drinking water, recycled water use that is fit for purpose and the safe use of recreational waterways.
Information and Resources on a Water Quality Issues
Current Alerts (including Marine Algal Bloom updates)
SA Health have prepared the following water issue fact sheets:
Legionella regulations and guidelines
Legionella
Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause serious pneumonia. Legionella can be found in composts, potting mix, soils and water. Councils Environmental Health Officer monitors and assesses cooling systems and warm water systems to ensure compliance. Council maintains a register of cooling systems and warm water systems in the area and require registration of the systems as per regulations.
Legionella Fees
The legionella fees are set by SA Health and can be found by clicking here.
Legionella registration forms