Water

Murray Darling Basin Plan

The Murray Darling Basin Authority is charged with developing a basin Plan for the Federal Water Minister’s consideration, within the framework of the Water Act 2007 (Cwlth).

Further information on this, including the Guide, is provided on the Murray Darling Basin Authority website.

Citrus Australia is making strong representation on this issue though its submissions to the Murray Darling Basin Authority and the various federal government inquiries; attendance at consultative meetings; meetings with Ministers and federal politicians; and its membership of the National Irrigators Council.

A new process that will fully develop a triple bottom line outcome and which engages all Basin communities and governments is urgently required, Chief Executive Officer Judith Damiani said.

“Not only do we need to give immediate attention to the serious social and economic impacts, but also identify environmental works and measures and fast-track irrigation infrastructure upgrades”

“The proposed Basin plan also needs to consider the extensive natural resource; catchment management; and other landcare programs, rather than just relying on increased water flows from irrigators for the total environmental solution.”

This may mean amending the Water Act to ensure a balanced outcome” said Ms Damiani.

Citrus Australia’s submissions are listed below:

• Murray Darling Basin Authority
• Inquiry into the proposed Murray Darling Basin plan – House of Representatives Committee
• Inquiry into the management of the Murray-Darling Basin – Senate Committee

Citrus Australia’s media releases regarding water are listed below:

• Feds making all the right noises on Basin Plan balance
• Government water reform process fatally flawed