Basin Inspector-General must deliver improved outcomes for farmers, communities & the environment

The National Farmers’ Federation has welcomed the formal appointment of Troy Grant as Inspector-General of Water Compliance for the Murray Darling Basin.

“We expect the role of Inspector-General will deliver improved outcomes for Basin farmers, communities and the environment,” NFF CEO Tony Mahar said.

“Additional confidence in the delivery of the Plan is crucial for communities challenged by its implementation.”

The release of the immediate priorities is a significant first and welcome step for the Inspector-General which indicates a considered and appropriate approach.

Mr Mahar said it was vital the Inspector-General worked in tandem with the Murray Darling Basin Authority and moved quickly to fully understand the values and interests of all Basin stakeholders. Part of the legislative empowerment of the Inspector-General has been to transfer the compliance role previously held by the MDBA.

“We look forward to meeting with Inspector-General Grant in the very near future to assist in this process.”

The Productivity Commission’s five-year review of the implementation of the Plan identified a number of shortcomings with the Plan and proposed strategies for addressing them.

“The report was the outcome of a formal review of the implementation of the Plan which included a wide range of consultations with impacted communities. The NFF maintains that this report provides the best pathway to guide improvements to the Plan and that these recommendations must be a priority going forward.

“The Murray Darling Basin Plan was always envisaged to be a living, dynamic document, that should be amended in response to lived experiences. We hope the role of Inspector General will be an important cog in the wheel of this process.”

“The NFF acknowledges the work of former Water Minister, David Littleproud and current Minister Pitt for bringing this important position to fruition.”