G-MW flags buyback concerns

Dec 2, 2024

Victoria’s largest rural water authority has flagged concerns over the Commonwealth Government’s buyback for the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

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In its annual report, G-MW has warned of the impact of random buybacks on the efficiency of the irrigation system.

“Indiscriminate buybacks risk creating a ‘Swiss cheese effect’, where irrigation is reduced inconsistently across several districts,” the statement, signed by G-MW chair Diane James, and managing director Charmaine Quick, said.

“This leads to higher operational and maintenance costs for infrastructure, making irrigation less sustainable for many.

“We will continue to collaborate with the Victorian Government and other agencies to advocate for water savings to come from efficiency projects and to identify recovery options that offer the greatest environmental benefits, while minimising socio-economic impacts,” the statement said.

The Commonwealth is trying to find 70 gigalitres from the southern basin, in a way that is opposed by the Victorian Government.