This afternoon’s announcement that the Albanese Government is opening a water tender buyback in the Southern Connected Murray-Darling Basin will send shockwaves through communities whose economic sustainability depends on irrigated agriculture.
Shadow Minister for Water and Emergency Management, Senator Perin Davey said it was extraordinary the Albanese Government will be conducting an open tender buyback for 70 gigalitres, yet can’t identify where the water will come from or for what purpose it will be used.
“The information released shows the Labor Government doesn’t know what communities will bear the brunt of this buyback tender,” Senator Davey said.
“The tender information clearly says there is no fixed volume to be recovered from each state, each catchment or each water right type.”
“Meanwhile, Minister Plibersek signed a document claiming she has considered the social and economic impact of the tender on our communities – how can she say that when she doesn’t know which communities to assess?”
Senator Davey said the announcement will be a slap in the face to the numerous local governments from across the Basin who have been in Canberra this week for the ALGA Conference.
“I’ve met with councils from across the Basin who are extremely concerned about what these open slather buybacks will do to their towns, businesses, and local environment,” Senator Davey said.
“Just this afternoon a motion was passed by Councils from across Australia calling on the Albanese Government to reject open market buybacks and put communities at the heart of any water recovery plans because of the damage they will do to our towns.
“This is on the back of ACCC Commissioner Mick Keogh today admitting that water buybacks increase prices paid by irrigators to access water, increasing the cost of food production.
“We have a Minister responsible for Water who couldn’t even be bothered to visit the Basin and explain what the government’s plans for them are. Instead, the Minister issues a sanctimonious media release late on the last sitting day before the winter break.”
Senator Davey said the disrespect shown to communities and the failure of the Albanese government to take their concerns seriously will result in job losses and increases in the cost of food at a time when Australians are already struggling with the cost of living.
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