The Albanese Labor Government has today released a summary of community ideas on how to deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

The Government is committed to delivering the Plan in full, including 450GL of water for the environment.

We know that for years local communities have felt left out of the conversation. That’s why the Government opened a public consultation to seek ideas from communities, industry, farmers, environmentalists and First Nations groups about how to meet the water recovery targets of the Plan.

More than 130 submissions were received, contributing innovative ideas on how to deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in full. Submissions considered things like ways to protect native fish, improve river operations, invest in infrastructure projects, use new technologies, and work in partnership with landholders.

One message that was clear was that communities want to see the Murray-Darling Basin Plan delivered. Submissions shared views on the long-term positive impacts of delivering the Basin plan, including boosting local economies and tourist opportunities, supporting industry, and of course better caring for the environment.

Many submissions also acknowledged that the Basin Plan would be best delivered if deadlines were extended, which further supports recent advice received by the Minister.

It’s clear local communities want to see a healthy, sustainable Basin in the future. That’s what the Government is committed to achieving.

The full report is on the department’s website.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water, the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP:

“Our Government is committed to delivering the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in full.

“The next drought is around the corner. We know the temperatures will get hotter, our rivers will get drier, and we need to protect the plants, animals and communities that rely on it. Local knowledge and lived experience of Basin communities is invaluable for us as we work to deliver the Plan.

“I thank everyone who contributed their ideas. I’ve been clear from the start that all options are on the table to deliver the Plan. We will consider all ideas that help us deliver the Plan in a timely and cost-effective way, maximising environmental outcomes while minimising any socio-economic impacts."