Active management of and investment in the Murray-Darling Basin is required to protect its ecosystems, ensuring that water is, and remains, available for diverse economic, cultural and social needs. Long-term governance featuring regional and rural community development is needed, along with the evolution of an agriculture industry based on decreased water availability and accepted water sharing policies.

Successful implementation of this 50-year vision would give the Murray-Darling Basin new life. Australians will benefit from a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems, vibrant and resilient communities, self-determination and engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities in water management, and secure water for productive regional industries. Improved irrigation practices and technology for water allocation would secure food production, while helping us produce more with less land, less water and less intensive infrastructure.

The essays in this series present key considerations for the Murray-Darling Basin Authority Climate Workplan and the 2026 Basin Plan Review in providing the best outcome in 50 years’ time, informed by the applied science and technology expertise of Fellows of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).