Media release: Community at the heart – Roadmap unveiled for Constraints Relaxation in the Murray–Darling Basin

This Roadmap delivers on a commitment under the Water Amendment (Restoring Our Rivers) Act 2023 and marks a significant milestone in the work to ensure a healthier future for the Murray–Darling Basin.

MDBA Chief Executive Andrew McConville said the Roadmap sets a clear and collaborative pathway for Basin governments to navigate the complex reforms required to relax constraints. It calls for the voices of those most affected, including landholders and First Nations peoples, to be at the heart of project design and delivery.

“Constraints relaxation is about working closely with Basin communities to give our rivers more opportunities to connect with their floodplains, creeks and wetlands,” Mr McConville said.

“This is needed to support healthy rivers for the social and economic future of the Basin and to realise the full benefits of public investment in water recovered for the environment.

“Importantly, constraints relaxation must be recognised as an essential part of delivering Basin Plan outcomes.”

The Roadmap includes a number of findings and practical steps for governments to consider, both up to 2026 when current funding ends, and in preparing for any decision on implementation over the longer term.

“Ultimately, success in achieving healthy rivers depends on the ongoing commitment of governments and their partnership with the people who live in the Basin,” Mr McConville said.

The Roadmap was developed in close consultation with the New South Wales, Victorian, and South Australian governments as well as the Commonwealth. It was developed in response to diverse stakeholder perspectives and community aspirations for a successful program.

“I encourage all governments to embrace this Roadmap. We believe it sets a collaborative and achievable pathway to deliver constraints projects for lasting change to achieve Rivers, for generations,” Mr McConville said.

For further information, visit Constraints Relaxation Implementation Roadmap.