Anthea Harris has been appointed as the Independent Reviewer for the Water Act Review. This review is crucial for managing Australia’s important water resource, the Murray-Darling Basin, and ensuring it meets modern challenges.
The Water Act 2007 mandates that a review take place by 2027 to assess if the current framework can adapt to issues like climate change. Harris, a well-respected figure in climate and energy sectors, previously led the Climate Change Authority and Australian Energy Regulator. She brings over 20 years of experience in policy and advocacy.
A First Nations Adviser will assist Harris, ensuring Indigenous perspectives are included in the review. This collaboration aims to highlight the views and priorities of First Nations Peoples, making their insights an integral part of the findings.
Minister for Water Murray Watt emphasized the review’s importance in managing Australia’s water resources effectively. He noted, “The Albanese Government is creating significant changes in national water policy, marking the most extensive update in nearly 20 years.”
The independent review will engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, local governments, and community groups, to gather diverse input. This approach is essential for assessing what is working well and identifying areas for improvement.
In addition to the Water Act Review, several other statutory water reviews are planned through 2027. These include evaluations of the Basin Plan and compliance frameworks. The insights from these ongoing processes will feed into the Water Act Review, shaping Australia’s approach to water management for the next decade.
The findings from the Water Act Review are set to be presented to the government by February 28, 2027. This comprehensive examination will hopefully pave the way for sustainable water management that supports both the environment and local communities.
For further details about water management policies in Australia, you can explore resources like the [Australia State of the Environment Report](https://soe.environment.gov.au/) for a deeper understanding of the issues at play.
