4.1
This chapter highlights some of the key issues discussed during the hearing on cross-portfolio Murray-Darling Basin Plan matters on 18 February 2022.
4.2
The committee heard from the following divisions and portfolio agencies of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (the department):
Commonwealth Environmental Water Office;
Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder;
Murray Darling-Basin Authority; and
Inspector-General of Water Compliance.
4.3
The committee also heard from the National Water Grid Authority from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.
4.4
Mr Andrew Metcalfe AO, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, gave a short opening statement touching on:
overall basin water storage levels of 92 per cent, up from 51 per cent at the same time the previous year;
forecasts for record agricultural production of over $78 billion this year; and
the retirement of Mr Phillip Glyde as Chief Executive Officer of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.
4.5
Topics discussed during the hearing include:
potential amendments to the Murray Darling Basin Plan;
1500GL cap on Commonwealth water buybacks;
progress on projects towards the sustainable diversion limit adjustment of 605GL;
studies on the management of water in the Barmah Choke;
agreements with irrigation infrastructure operators to enhance delivery of environmental water;
basin river model planning;
cost-benefit analysis of off-farm efficiency programs;
implementation of recommendations made by the ACCC;
indigenous water entitlements; and
the Inspector-General of Water Compliance’s review of metering and compliance.
Senator Susan McDonald
Chair