The BOC endorsed their strategic priorities for 2023-2024 which include the delivery of the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) projects and Northern Basin Toolkit measures, a review of River Murray Flood and Resilience, delivery of the Capacity Shortfall Program, a possible pathway for recovery of 450 gigalitres of additional environmental water recovery, and Basin Scale modelling, science, and climate information.
The BOC were taken through the Murray-Darling Basin Authority’s (the MDBA) approach for preparing for the 2026 Basin Plan Review and the opportunities it presents for intergovernmental engagement.
Members noted the progress of the Integrated River Modelling Uplift Program and agreed to further discuss the scope and sharing of existing catchment models. Members also noted the next phases of the Murray-Darling Sustainable Yields and Sustainable Rivers Audit.
Members noted prior work undertaken by Basin governments and the MDBA regarding the supply contribution calculation method for the SDLAM and heard directly from members of the Wentworth Group who provided a presentation on their views of the SDLAM reconciliation method.
The BOC endorsed updated Terms of Reference for the Capacity and Delivery Shortfall Independent Panel of Experts and noted the update on progress provided by the Panel Chair. Members agreed the general principles for managing a shortfall and for a paper to be submitted to the Ministerial Council on the Capacity and Shortfall Program including the Barmah-Millewa Program.
The MDBA provided members with advice on the protection of environmental flows in the Darling River from the northern to southern Basin. The BOC requested a detailed proposal outlining key considerations and potential works required to adjust operating arrangements to protect water through the Menindee lakes for the next water year.
BOC will meet next in September 2023.