Rachel Kelly has been appointed chair of the principal community advisory body in the basin, starting on July 1.
Ms Kelly, a policy manager at Rice Growers of Australia, is a qualified lawyer, who is also vice-chair of the New South Wales Irrigators Council.
She has also worked for Murray Irrigation Ltd and an Echuca law firm.
Former chair Phil Duncan will continue on the committee.
Murray-Darling Basin Authority chair Sir Angus Houston said Ms Kelly’s policy and leadership expertise would help the Basin Community Committee to advise the authority on basin water policy and management.
“I’m delighted that Ms Kelly brings on-ground professional experience on a wide range of water resource and community matters.
“Her focus on transparency and quality engagement with communities will be an asset to the committee as we continue to deliver the basin plan and prepare for the basin plan Review in 2026.”
Ms Kelly attended Coleambally Central School and studied at the University of Canberra.
“I thank Mr Phil Duncan for his outstanding leadership of the committee these past three years – his guidance has been far-reaching and has elevated the voice of First Nations people on important water use and management issues for basin communities,” Sir Angus said.
“A strong, representative basin community committee is critical for ensuring inclusive dialogue from all sections of basin communities.”
Sir Angus said it was vital the committee provided independent, community advice to the Ministerial Council and the MDBA on current and emerging issues related to water management in Australia’s most important river system.
Comprising up to 16 representatives, BCC members are appointed by the MDBA for a three-year term, under the Water Act 2007.
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