Murray-Darling Basin water projects face significant shortfall

A draft determination from the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) reveals that efficiency projects intended to increase environmental flows are projected to fall significantly short of their targets. While the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) was designed to deliver 605 gigalitres (GL) of water to the environment, the MDBA expects only 340GL to be delivered by the end of 2026.

This 265GL shortfall may impact the balance between agricultural use and environmental needs. Water Minister Murray Watt described the shortfall as “extremely disappointing,” noting that these projects were meant to reduce the necessity for further voluntary water buybacks from irrigators. The draft determination indicates that only 22 of the 39 originally notified measures are expected to be operational by the December 31 deadline.

MDBA Chief Executive Andrew McConville stated that the reconciliation process is a requirement of the Basin Plan and is based on an independent assessment of available evidence.