Overview
The Australian Government is committed to co-designing enduring water holding arrangements with First Nations Peoples in the Murray–Darling Basin (Basin). This will allow water purchased through the $100 million Basin Aboriginal Water Entitlements Program to be held for the enduring benefit of Basin First Nations Peoples.
The design of the enduring water holding arrangements will be based on the outcomes that First Nations Peoples want to achieve.
The government will work closely with Basin First Nations communities to define governance principles that enhance collective ownership and management of water resources. This will be achieved through:
Nation-based face-to-face engagement.
Small, focus groups.
A thorough review of academic papers, Nation-led water ownership models, and resource management plans.
This “Have Your Say" survey.
Ongoing communications, regular updates via email, phone and the website.
We will also consult existing First Nations organisations on good governance and options for sustainable funding models.
Once established, the enduring water holding arrangements will replace the interim governance arrangements, with all remaining funds and water entitlements transferred to the new, enduring water holding arrangements.
We invite Basin First Nations Peoples to take part in the survey and provide their insights and views to help with phase one of the design of the enduring water holding arrangements.
