The NFF membership holds significant concern over the proposed engagement timeline as presented, the lack of detailed mapping of proposed objectives against those of the existing 2004 National Water Initiative (NWI), and the apparent lack of consideration of work currently being undertaken by the Productivity Commission (PC) directly related to this subject (the ongoing Inquiry into National Water Reform 2024). There has been minimal co-design with key representative bodies from irrigated agriculture. The language of proposed objectives requires further clarification with industry in a transparent and consultative manner. This must occur before consideration for agreement with State and Territory Ministers is entertained.
Read the full submission here.
Akshata Giri