The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe is encouraging local residents, farmers and community groups across the Shepparton District electorate to have their say on the current public consultation into the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
Ms O’Keeffe said the current review allows for an important opportunity for communities across Northern Victoria to help shape the future of the Basin.
“I encourage everyone who is interested to have their say on the current review into the Murray-Darling Basin Plan as it is important to ensure that local voices are heard on the issues that matter the most to our region.
“Water security continues to be an important issue across Northern Victoria, but in particular the Goulburn Valley irrigation is the lifeblood of our agricultural sector, yet farmers continue to face uncertainty around water availability, pricing and policy settings,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
The consultation is open until Friday May 1 2026, which invites feedback on the Discussion Paper, including key challenges, proposed options, and community priorities for managing the Basin into the future.
“It is important that the unique needs of rural and regional communities are reflected in any future decisions regarding the Basin.
“Communities must be protected, supported and planned for, our region is incredibly proud to be known as the food bowl of Australia, a region that literally feeds the nation as well as producing global exports.
“Anyone who has in an interest in the health of our waterways, agriculture and regional communities to take part in the current review,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
Submissions can be made via the consultation website, with further information about the review can be found online at https://getinvolved.mdba.gov.au/2026basinplanreview.
