August 01, 2023
Basin targets unrealistic and need urgent review
In a recent press release, One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts calls for an urgent review of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan's environmental water recovery targets rather than extending the mid-2024 deadline. The marks, which aim to recover up to 3200 gigalitres by mid-2024, are deemed unrealistic by Senator Roberts, with an impending shortfall of approximately 750 GL and less than 11 months remaining. He raises concerns that Labor's pursuit of these targets could jeopardize jobs and industries in Basin communities. Senator Roberts highlights the need for alternative solutions to recover environmental water, avoiding the adverse impacts of large-scale buybacks on local businesses and communities. Emphasizing the importance of supporting Basin irrigators, who contribute 40% of Australia's food and fibre production, he urges a revision of the targets to reflect economic and social realities. With taxpayers' costs exceeding $13 billion and significant water already given up by irrigators, Senator Roberts advocates for more practical and sustainable water recovery measures.
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