Irrigators in the Murray-Darling Basin have sold almost double the amount of water the federal government initially sought, according to Water Minister Tanya Plibersek. 

The government recently opened a tender to purchase 44.3 gigalitres of water as part of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan's Bridging the Gap target. 

However, reports say that over 250 offers were received - more than double the required amount. Offers have already been accepted in various regions, potentially allowing them to enhance their water sustainability.

Additionally, an interim report by the Productivity Commission has raised concerns about the progress of the basin plan, saying there is a need for greater transparency, increased funding, and enhanced engagement with First Nations communities. 

The report also highlights the necessity of establishing a staged, voluntary water buyback program to recover water cost-effectively and promote smooth transitions for communities with reduced water access.

The report suggests that the federal government lacks sufficient funds to achieve the target of recovering 450 gigalitres of additional environmental water.

To streamline the water recovery process, the report recommends creating a ‘Commonwealth corporate entity’.
“Such an entity may be able to engage with the market more nimbly and quickly than a government department, undertake water purchases and other water recovery projects that do not fit neatly into Commonwealth procurement and grant rules, and help depoliticise water recovery,” the report said.

Despite previous initiatives, it also says First Nations engagement in decision-making processes within the basin remains sluggish and must be improved.