Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA), Media Release, 16 April 2024

More than 100 senior leaders will meet under one roof today for a 2-day summit hosted by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) to collaborate, listen and share the diverse points of view on current and future management of the Basin.

MDBA Chief Executive Andrew McConville said the summit continues the conversation with First Nations people, industry, environmental, science and community leaders collaborating on the future of the Basin. 

“In 2026 the MDBA will review the Basin Plan. The review is a legislated requirement and will inform recommendations to Government about the future management of the Basin,” Mr McConville said.

“We know there are many values and interests when it comes to the Basin. The diverse opinions on how water should be shared and managed is often a point of tension, but if we want rivers for generations, we must all work towards Basin management that can achieve this.

“Implementation of the current Basin Plan is essential and full implementation over the extended timeframe through to 2027 puts us – the environment, our industries, and communities – in the best possible position to tackle future challenges.

“The Review in 2026 is that forward looking piece. It’s our chance to do things differently to set the Basin up for the future.

“This summit is one of many ways we are engaging to better understand future challenges for the Basin. The MDBA continues to engage, as we travel the Basin, through regional community forums, with Basin state officials’ meetings with interest groups.

“We welcome input from all Australians and will share our early insights on the Review in June at the River Reflections conference in Albury and publish progress on our website.” 

Outcomes of the summit will be shared on the MDBA website.