LOCAL residents, farmers and community groups are encouraged to share their views to help inform public consultation into the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said the current review is an important opportunity for communities across northern Victoria to help shape the future of the Basin.
“Water security continues to be an important issue across northern Victoria, but in particular the Goulburn Valley,” she said. “Irrigation is the lifeblood of our agricultural sector, yet farmers continue to face uncertainty around water availability, pricing and policy settings.”
Consultation is open until Friday, May 1, 2026, inviting feedback on the Discussion Paper, including key challenges, proposed options, and community priorities for managing the Basin into the future.
“It is important that the unique needs of rural and regional communities are reflected in any future decisions regarding the Basin,” said Ms O’Keeffe.
“Communities must be protected, supported and planned for. Our region is incredibly proud to be known as the food bowl of Australia, a region that literally feeds the nation as well as producing global exports.”
She said anyone interested in the health of our waterways, agriculture, and regional communities should take part in the current review.
Submissions can be made via the consultation website, with further information about the review available online at https://getinvolved.mdba.gov.au/2026basinplanreview.
