WATER ACT 2007 - SECT 233 Compensation for damage

WATER ACT 2007 - SECT 233

  (1)   This section applies if:

  (a)   as a result of equipment being operated as mentioned in this Subdivision:

  (i)   damage is caused to the equipment; or

  (ii)   data recorded on the equipment is damaged; or

  (iii)   programs associated with the use of the equipment, or with the use of the data, are damaged or corrupted; and

  (b)   the damage or corruption occurs because:

  (i)   insufficient care was exercised in selecting the person who was to operate the equipment; or

  (ii)   insufficient care was exercised by the person operating the equipment.

  (2)   Compensation is payable to the owner of the equipment, or the user of the data or programs, for the damage or corruption out of money appropriated by the Parliament.

  (2A)   However, if the owner or user and the Commonwealth fail to agree, the owner or user may institute proceedings in a court referred to in section   138 for such reasonable amount of compensation as the court determines.

  (3)   In determining the amount of compensation payable, regard is to be had to whether an occupier of the premises and his or her employees and agents, if they were available at the time, had provided any warning or guidance as to the operation of the equipment that was appropriate in the circumstances.