Constraints relaxation is about enabling controlled environmental flows to connect rivers more regularly with their adjacent flood-runners, creeks and low-lying wetlands.
State governments have been working with their communities for several years on projects that can make this happen. The projects need to be designed well, which involves working in close collaboration with those affected and in partnership across governments. This work is not easy and takes time to get right. Each state is currently at a different stage in the process.
MDBA Senior Director, Asitha Katupitiya said greater coordination and integration was needed across projects, which is why the MDBA has been tasked with developing a roadmap to set a clear and practical pathway for relaxing constraints over the next 10 years.
“In the past few months we’ve been discussing the way forward with a range of groups with different interests across communities and industries, and we thank them for sharing their perspectives and experience,” Dr Katupitiya said.
“We've heard ideas about what to include in the roadmap, including local and system-wide considerations.”
Community views and ideas shared at MDBA Regional Community Forums in August is just one example helping to shape this work.
“Issues raised included the need for cooperation across state borders, the substantial benefit to rivers and communities from relaxing constraints, as well as the importance of working closely with community as projects are designed and implemented,” Dr Katupitiya said.
Everybody is encouraged to share their views via the feedback form on the MDBA website or by writing to engagement@mdba.gov.au.