Members received an update on the approach for developing the Basin Plan Review (BPR) Discussion Paper. The Authority agreed to a strategy for engagement with Basin officials and engagement with the Basin Community Committee (BCC). Agreement to a final draft is expected to be sought from the Authority in late November to early December 2025.
The Authority noted progress in the development of the Constraints Relaxation Implementation Roadmap and discussed issues to be addressed through the Roadmap. A further draft is expected to be provided to the Authority at the next meeting in December 2024.
Members endorsed the release of the third edition of the 2024 Basin-wide Environmental Watering Strategy (BWS) for consultation. The Basin Plan requires the BWS to be reviewed and updated every 5 years.
An update was provided to the Authority on the BCC recruitment process to fill 6 vacancies by 1 April 2025.
The Authority further discussed how it will assess the achievement of Basin Plan environmental outcomes.
Members considered the final report by the Independent Hydroclimate Science Expert Panel (IHSEP) and the Authority’s response to IHSEP’s advice.
The Authority members considered draft advice on the recovery of water towards the additional 450 GL/y target in response to requests from Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
The Authority noted water resource availability and key water management activities and risks along the River Murray System. The Authority requested regular updates on conditions as they change over the coming Summer.
An update was provided to the Authority following the recent Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Sciences (ACSEES) 32 meeting. Members noted the ACSEES 32 Communique and 2024 to 2026 ACSEES Workplan.
The Authority members received an update on the Joint Programs multi-year budget and reiterated the importance of moving to a multi-year framework and ongoing investment in both operations and risk management of major assets.
The Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) provided the Authority members with an update. Members noted the Audit and Risk Committee 2024 workplan.
The Authority members received an update from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
The Chief Executive provided an overview of current operational and strategic issues and Authority Members received updates from Executive Directors.
Members farewelled Susan Madden after eight years on the Authority. The Authority thanked Susan for her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to Basin communities.
- Sir Angus Houston (Chair)
- Professor Stuart Bunn
- Dr Jane Doolan
- Ms Roseanne Healy
- Mr Rene Woods
- Ms Susan Madden
- Mr Andrew McConville
ENDS