NSW to consider independent Connectivity Panel findings
The NSW Government has received the findings of the independent Connectivity Expert Panel looking into the adequacy of existing water sharing rules and potential changes that could help improve downstream flows in the Barwon-Darling River system.
The interim findings were handed down in April 2024 and now the final report has been released with 44 findings and 24 recommendations.
The NSW Government is carefully reviewing the final recommendations report and will undertake detailed hydrological and economic modelling on all the Panel’s proposed changes to fully understand their potential benefits and impacts.
While the NSW Government is focused on improving the health of Barwon Darling River System it must be done in a way that does not have a detrimental impact on regional communities.
Acknowledging the complexity of the issue, the priority is to ensure all water users have the opportunity to have their say. This includes the usual processes for water sharing plan amendments
To view the final report, visit: Connectivity Expert Panel | Water (nsw.gov.au)
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson:
“It’s been nearly 18 months since I took the reins as Minister for Water, and improving river connectivity is one of my key priorities. We need to ensure there is enough water flowing between catchments to support the environment, communities, and industries.
“You don’t need me to tell you the system is struggling. We’ve seen it first-hand in recent years through ongoing water quality issues and catastrophic fish deaths in dry and wet times.
“That’s why I pulled together this Connectivity Expert Panel with some of the best and brightest minds in water to put a totally independent lens on the analysis on ways to improve flows for downstream connectivity.
“I want to thank the Panel for their efforts and making themselves available for community dialogue. More work now needs to be done to understand what these recommendations mean, and what benefits and impacts they might have.
“While my Department completes this critical modelling work to get a clearer understanding of the flow targets, we’ll take the time to carefully consider how we’ll proceed.
“This is about improving connectivity and supporting a healthier river system and environment, but we must be making informed decisions that consider the needs of every water user, which is underpinned by comprehensive data and analysis before anything is locked in.
“I want to be clear that the findings of the Panel are just one of the many considerations that will be taken into account. I also want to reassure everyone that no decisions will be made without consulting closely with the community, water users, industry groups, Aboriginal people, Basin Governments and environmental stakeholders.”
