“New Australian Register Promotes Transparency and Accountability in Foreign Investment in Water Resources”

From July 1, 2023, the Australian government will maintain the Australian Register of Foreign Ownership of Water Entitlements to track foreign ownership of water entitlements in the country. Foreign individuals and entities with a registrable water entitlement must register with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) within 30 days. The register aims to increase transparency and accountability in foreign investment in Australia’s water resources while protecting the privacy of individuals and entities. Environmental groups and farmers welcome the register as it provides visibility into foreign ownership of water entitlements and promotes informed decision-making about foreign investment.