NEWS & EVENTS

Advocating for the Australian irrigated agriculture industries.

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Did you know?

Today is a great day to celebrate that 93% of Australia's fruit, nuts and grapes together with 83% of our vegetables are all grown by irrigation.

Every day, is  great day to support Aussie Farmers and buy Australian grown fruit, nuts and vegetables. 

#AgDayAU celebrating that Aussie farmers grow more crop per drop

#AgDayAU celebrating that Aussie farmers grow more crop per drop

15 November is National Ag Day, a day to celebrate the amazing work our farmers and the broader agricultural industry do for Australia.  Australian irrigators are recognised as the most water efficient in the world, growing more crop per drop than many of our international counterparts.

100% of Australia's rice is irrigated, and is world leading using 50% less than the global average [DAFF]. 

85% of Australia's cotton crop on average is irrigated, the cotton industry has increased its water use efficiency by 240% since the first crop in the 1970's [DAFF]



Irrigators’ have called out Minister Plibersek’s announcement of having ‘1000 willing sellers towards’ the Commonwealth’s tender to buy water for the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, as a political stunt on the day of Senate Estimates.
“The last time Minister Plibersek announced a buyback tender round had been over-subscribed, the Government later rejected 72% of the offers contracting only a small proportion of the reported offers (26 GL out of 90 GL), mostly due to value for money concerns,” said Zara Lowien, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council. [...] …


National Irrigators' Council CEO, Zara Lowien writes "after decades of difficult reforms implementing Australia's best-practice water management blueprint - the National Water Initiative (NWI) - the federal government is negotiating to water it down, in the National Water Agreement (NWA).

If the NWI is the architecturally designed blueprint, the NWA is the flatpack version with unclear instructions and a few missing pieces"... …


The National Irrigators’ Council proudly announces the election of a new leadership team at its Annual General Meeting in Canberra last week. This transition includes the appointment of Ms Jenny McLeod as the first female chair and Ms Rosalie Auricht as vice-chair, alongside two new board members, Ms Jenna Bell and Mr Ben Fessey. [...]

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he Federal Government continue their pre-election rush, with a flawed buyback tender process designed to over-estimate irrigator interest in selling water to the Government as part of the Government’s relentless pursuit of buybacks to achieve the additional 450 GL of water under the Basin Plan. This is despite Minister Plibersek’s assurances that all other options, other than buybacks, were on the table. [...] …


The Federal Government is again being called out for rushing through risky and untested reforms that seek to gain more power for themselves, prior to the upcoming election.  Consultation soon closes on their recent grab, to list two new areas as “endangered” under national environment law, replicating a controversial and subsequently, disallowed move by the former Labor Government in 2013. [...] …


The federal governments draft National Water Agreement should be of concern to all who rely on rivers writes National Irrigators' Council CEO, Zara Lowien for the Weekly Times [...] …


National Irrigators are calling on states and territories, the future signatories to an updated National Water Agreement, to say “no way to the draft NWA”. The Federal Government’s rushed NWA is tipped to be our nations next water management blueprint[i] but risks major changes to water management frameworks in its current form. Zara Lowien, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council said, “States cannot sign the current draft NWA" [...] …


National Irrigators Council are calling on the Australian Government for answers, as they continue to pursue additional water purchases when water usage is well below the Basin Plan limits.  National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Zara Lowien said “the recently released data from the Murray Darling Basin Authority[i] confirms the core objectives of the Basin Plan are being achieved with water take 23 percent below the Basin Plan limit [...] …


The federal government has already broekn its promises on buybacks writes National Irrigators' Council Chair, Jeremy Morton for the Weekly Times  [...] …


National Irrigators warn collaboration is needed on key reforms Canberra, ACT, 27 June 2024: On the eve of the National Water Ministers meeting, the National Irrigators’ Council is calling on state Water Ministers to demand accountability from the Federal Government for a more inclusive and effective approach to National and Basin water issues. The Council’s […] …


Insights Paper on Murray Darling Basin Plan Review flips the focus to outcomes 20 June 2024, Canberra, ACT: The National Irrigators’ Council welcomes the release of the Murray Darling Basin Authority’s early insights paper as positive shift in thinking on how best to manage the Murray Darling Basin. The National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Zara Lowien […] …


Government’s amendment to Basin Plan impacts keeps communities in the dark 12 June 2024, Caberra, ACT: The Australian Government is attempting to use the $300 million Sustainable Communities Program to divert attention from their addendum to the Murray Darling Basin Plan regulatory impact assessment which lacks transparency on the true cost of the Basin Plan […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback into the Australian Government’s National Water Agreement Discussion Paper. The opportunity to submit our voice into this critical agreement for ongoing national water planning and management, has been considered with much consternation on the part of our members. We are frustrated at the current urgency to undertake this discussion process, right now. We are frustrated at the opaque and minimalist engagement process now and during the agreement development stages. We are frustrated that 20-years of difficult reforms for many across Australia, are seemingly being disregarded. …


A renewed National Water Agreement Zara Lowien*, Canberra, ACT: Over two decades the National Water Initiative (2004) has played a crucial role in shaping the future of water management in Australia and it remains world leading. It has supported the growth and sustainability of the irrigation industry but in doing so, it has also reshaped […] …


VIC Basin deal must reignite old and new win-win projects for all states Canberra, ACT – The National Irrigators Council (NIC) is relieved that the stalemate between the Australian Government and Victoria appears broken with agreement to fund Victoria’s stalled Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) projects. This crucial step is a win-win for Victoria […] …


ACT Basin Plan deal seeks to close the gap but triggers the need for more transparency Canberra, ACT – The National Irrigators Council (NIC) welcomes the recent announcement by the Federal Water Minister regarding the finalisation of bridging the gap in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), signalling further progress towards Basin Plan implementation. The deal, […] …


Productivity Commission warns Basin Governments – don’t waste time, do your job The Productivity Commission’s Final Report into the 5-year Implementation Review of the Murray Dalring Basin Plan has highlighted significant concerns about Basin Plan governance, saying governments must shape up or fail said Zara Lowien, CEO of National Irrigators Council. “The final report has […] …


NSW Confirms Buyback not the Answer. The NSW Government release of their ‘Alternatives to Buybacks Plan’ as part of their commitment to implement the Murray Darling Basin Plan has been welcomed by National Irrigators Council CEO, Zara Lowien. “It was a show of cards by NSW to reinforce their commitment to avoid buybacks”. “The focus […] …


National Irrigators Council welcomes new CEO The National Irrigators Council welcomes Mrs. Zara Lowien as their new Chief Executive Officer, as the organisation prepares for members to visit Canberra for their first meeting of the year and the first, with Zara in the role as CEO. Jeremy Morton, Chair of National Irrigators Council said “We […] …


Basin communities’ fate sealed during Senate debate National Irrigators Council (NIC) is disheartened to see Minister Tanya Plibersek’s Restoring our Rivers Bill passed in the Senate today without bipartisan support, as the Government sought deals with individual cross benchers, driving a wedge into the heart of Basin communities. Thirty-three Senators voted to pass the bill, […] …


Peak body opposes last minute water Bill deal ahead of Senate debate. National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) is disappointed about the last-minute deal struck between the Albanese Government and the Australian Greens to apparently ‘strengthen’ the Restoring Our Rivers Bill with the addition of new amendments – none of which reflect any socio-economic consideration of Basin […] …


Productivity Commission warns the Government, you risk being seen as just chasing a volumetric target. The Productivity Commission released its Interim 5-year Review into the Implementation of the Murray Darling Basin Plan and was scathing of the lack of progress and planning by Government’s in the lead up to the Plan’s initial deadline of June […] …


Government Withholds Vital Information from Senate on Murray-Darling Basin Bill The Federal Government is attempting to blindside the Senate on its Murray-Darling Basin Bill by refusing to release crucial information on how it will affect farmers, regional communities, the environment and the water market. The National Farmers Federation, National Irrigators’ Council and NSW Irrigators’ Council […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has appeared before today’s Senate inquiry into the Federal Government’s Restoring Our Rivers Bill 2023, which proposes a range of amendments to the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. The peak body, which was among 27 individual and stakeholder groups to present at the public hearing in Canberra today, cited its strong opposition […] …


Ensuring the viability and sustainability of Australian irrigated agriculture and the security and reliability of water entitlements The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) is seeking an experienced Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organisation and support industry through national water reforms. NIC is the national peak body representing the interests of irrigators across Australia. This […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council welcomed the release of the consultation outcomes paper of summarising community led ideas to finalise the Murray Darling Basin Plan. NIC Chair Jeremy Morton said: “We’ve always suggested there were better ways to finalise the Plan without the need to buy more water from production. “Communities have again, stood up and […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council has today welcomed Minister Plibersek’s announcement that the timelines will be extended to finalise the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Today’s announcement is a credit to Minister Plibersek and her pragmatic approach to finalising the Basin Plan. NIC has been calling for this timeline extension and we are […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council has released its submission to the finalising the Basin Plan ideas consultation process and it comes as the Federal Water Minister has today asked the Basin Authority to report on whether the Plan can be achieved by its mid-2024 deadline. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Minister Plibersek called for ideas on […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council acknowledges and welcomes the Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review Roadmap released today at River Reflections by Sir Angus Houston, MDBA Chair. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “All Australians are connected to the Murray-Darling Basin, whether they know it or not. Forty percent of our farms, over $22 billion is economic activity at […] …


This World Environment Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and consider how we finalise the Plan to get real outcomes for our environment. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Over the last few years, the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder has been able to deliver fish and bird breeding […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has acknowledged the release of the Federal Budget, noting it leaves open a number of unanswered questions particularly on food security, cost of living and water management. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Federal Budget listed over $872 million of savings from abandoned water infrastructure projects, while pausing an additional […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomes the election of the new New South Wales Government following Saturday’s election. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC congratulates the Minns Government on its election at this weekend’s state poll and looks forward to working with the new government and new parliament. “The Government-elect takes the reins at a […] …


The Government’s water buyback program tender documents, with the misnomer “strategic purchasing of 44.3GL/y of water rights”, have been released and they raise some significant questions. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The only thing ‘strategic’ about this ‘strategic purchasing of 44.3GL/y of water rights’ is the name. It is an open tender – throwing a […] …


The Federal Water Minister has today confirmed the Government will seek to buyback water across the Murray-Darling Basin in what will be devastating news for farmers and their local communities. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Today the Minister has confirmed what communities, businesses and workers across the Murray-Darling Basin have been fearing – the return […] …


The Federal Government has today refused to give New South Wales and Victoria more time to deliver their Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) projects, while flagging more buybacks are likely to fill shortfalls. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Federal Minister Tanya Plibersek has repeatedly said all options are on the table for finalising […] …


The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) this week released its update to the optimistically named Electricity Statement of Opportunities (ESOO) and the news isn’t good. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC supports the transition of our national energy market to incorporate renewables, helping to move the country towards net zero emissions by 2050. As a […] …


The Basin Water Ministers Council (MinCo) meets this week and Basin communities and stakeholders are in the dark (yet again) on what’s on the agenda. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “$22 billion worth of food & fibre is grown in the Murray-Darling Basin with a multiplier in economic activity taking that up to around $80 […] …


The Basin Water Ministers Council (MinCo) meets this week to discuss finalising the Basin Plan and it must deliver on its promises to regional communities, businesses, workers and the environment. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “Businesses need certainty to invest and employ workers. Changing goalposts creates uncertainty, fosters distrust and heightens sensitivities. MinCo can’t go […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council acknowledges the release of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan Report Card for 2022 and is pleased to note the progress being made on implementing the Basin Plan. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Basin Plan Report Card for 2022 is full of good news, but you wouldn’t know it if you only […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has released its new position statement on finalising the Murray-Darling Basin Plan with a renewed commitment to implementing the Plan in the best interests of regional communities. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Murray-Darling Basin Plan has been a success. It has provided balance between the needs of the productive […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council acknowledges the release of the State of the Climate report which timely coincides with the 10 year anniversary of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Murray-Darling Basin Plan has delivered ninety-eight percent of its surface water targets and over ninety percent of its groundwater targets. It has […] …


Minister Plibersek has confirmed water buybacks are part of the undisclosed ‘significant funds’ allocated to finalising the Basin Plan in this week’s Federal Budget. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Minister has confirmed Canberra’s worst kept secret that the Government intends to enter the water market and buyback water used to grow our food and […] …


Wednesday 26 October 2022 Budget 2022: Secret Funds, Missed Opportunities and Energy Headaches The new Federal Government has delivered its first budget with a few surprises, including ‘significant funding’ which has been set aside for finalising the Murray-Darling Basin Plan – the problem is only the Government knows how much is allocated and what the […] …


Eighteen months, four new Ministers and rising uncertainty oh to be a fly on the wall at the Ministerial Council (MinCo) meeting to be held in Canberra this week between Basin Water Ministers. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Even with four new ministers sitting around the table and eighteen months to prepare, MinCo […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today acknowledged the release of the Integrated Systems Plan 2022 by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “AEMO has released its Integrated Systems Plan for the National Energy Market which outlines the agency’s views on the shape of the energy market and […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the new Ministry, sworn in today in a ceremony at Government House in Canberra. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “On behalf of the National Irrigators’ Council, I welcome the appointment of the new Ministers in the Albanese Federal Government. It is an incredible honour and privilege […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the announcement of the One Basin Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) and congratulated the proponents of the proposal. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The collaboration culminating in this week’s announcement is a demonstration of the capacity and drive of a range of sectors working together across five […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the election of the Albanese Government and looks forward to working with the new government and parliament. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The 2022 Federal Election will be one for the record books with remarkable swings and a changing of the guard in numerous electorates around […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today asked both major parties and all candidates at the upcoming Federal Election to put aside partisan fighting over the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and water policy. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC wants to see the Basin Plan completed and I’m happy to say we are nearly […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today cautioned the Australian Labor Party (ALP) against rushing to commit to water policy decisions which will have adverse effects on food and fibre producers, the environment, local communities and water regulation. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Today, the Leader of the Opposition has announced a number […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the appointments made to the Executive and Board of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA), and to the new Modernising Murray River Systems Technical Panel. NIC Chief Executive Office Isaac Jeffrey said: “Minister Pitt has announced the appointment of Andrew McConville to the role of Chief Executive Officer of […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has today welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment to building Hells Gates Dam in Queensland. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Water infrastructure which is built in the right locations at the right time can secure Australia’s food security while helping to protect the environment. What people often forget is […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the announcement made by the Federal Government to improve Murray Irrigation’s network to deliver water for the environment. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Irrigators are passionate locals who love seeing healthy rivers and enjoying them with their families and friends. They understand local issues and want […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has today called on the Australian Labor Party to reconsider its election water policy with indications the party will reverse the bipartisan clauses of protecting socio-economic conditions and caps to buybacks in the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Without irrigation, we don’t have food on […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomes the Australian Government’s announcement of $66 million to modernise and integrate Basin River modelling to provide more timely and accurate information about water availability. The Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) currently uses 24 individual river system models linked together to describe the surface water resources of the Basin. The upgrade […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) welcomes the appointment of The Hon. Kevin Anderson MP as the new Minister for Land and Water, and acknowledges the outgoing Minister, The Hon. Melinda Pavey MLC. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC congratulates Kevin Anderson on his appointment to the new Perrottet Government as the Minister for Land and […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) welcomes the long-awaited appointment of a new member to the Murray Darling Basin Authority. NIC CEO, Isaac Jeffrey said: “The appointment of Ms Roseanne Healy to the Authority is an important step to enable the Authority to be equipped with the skills and knowledge required over the coming years to […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) acknowledges and thanks Phillip Glyde for his service as Chief Executive of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) over the past six years, following the announcement of his intention to retire. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Council thanks Phillip Glyde for his service to the very challenging water reform […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the Australian Government’s announcement of $6.6million to Queensland to ensure native fish species in Northern Basin Murray Darling Rivers have thegreatest opportunity to breed and to thrive. The project is one of the ten Northern Basin Toolkit package of projects that is keeping 70GL of water inproductive use in […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has welcomed the announcement of a new Federal Government grants program to fund off-farm efficiency projects under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Murray-Darling Basin Plan is one of the most complex pieces of water regulation in the world. Since its inception, a great […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) acknowledges and welcomes the appointment of the advisory group on water markets in the Murray-Darling Basin announced today by Minister for Resources and Water, The Hon. Keith Pitt MP. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission earlier in the year released its extensive water […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) acknowledges the Government’s ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and welcomes its commitment to achieving this important goal. NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC recently announced our commitment to net zero by 2050, emphasising the need for governments, opposition, industry and communities to come together to plan and […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) acknowledges the proposal released by the New South Wales Government over the weekend on rescoping the Menindee and Yanco projects. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The NSW Government has announced its proposal to change the Menindee and Yanco Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment mechanism (SDLAM) projects which form part […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has met this week to set its refreshed strategic direction and discuss important matters relating to climate change and national water reform. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “NIC is the voice of irrigated agriculture in Australia and our vision is for a vibrant, respected and sustainable Australian irrigation […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has held its Annual General Meeting which included the election of new Directors to the Board. Steven Ford, Phillip Snowden and Rosalie Auricht have been appointed and bring a breadth of knowledge, skills and experience. Steven Ford is the General Manager of Pioneer Valley Water in Queensland and has a […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today released an updated climate change policy, including support for Australia to move to net zero emissions by 2050. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Our climate is changing and farmers are at the forefront of this change. Already we are seeing more variable rainfall and inflows, varying […] …


Australia’s climate is changing and farmers are at the frontlines, which is why we need net zero by 2050, writes Isaac Jeffrey, Chief Executive Officer, National Irrigators’ Council.   Our climate is changing. The dry areas of our country are getting drier and we are already experiencing less rain and inflows into our river systems. We are seeing more extreme and frequent weather events brought on by our changing climate. These trends are set to continue, coupled with rising […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has welcomed the release of the Productivity Commission’s final report on the National Water Initiative (NWI), recognising that it will form the basis for an examination of Australia’s future water security challenges now and into the future. NIC CEO, Isaac Jeffrey said: “The Commission’s report sets out a process for […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council today welcomed the release of the Energy Security Board’s final advice to Energy Ministers for a post 2025 market design for the National Energy Market. Chief Executive Isaac Jeffrey said: “As the energy market undergoes transition, agriculture food and fibre producers need to be assured that, as part of the mix […] …


A feasibility study considering options to address issues with the Barmah Choke has been announced by the Federal Government and welcomed by the National Irrigators’ Council says Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey. “The Murray-Darling Basin is a connected and complex system which stores and moves water throughout the Eastern States. The water goes to local […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today welcomed the announcement of the longawaited Agriculture Visa. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Industry has been calling for a visa for agricultural workers for many years to support our primary industries by addressing critical workforce shortages. “The Federal Government has listened to industry and has today […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today questioned the transparency andpredictability of water allocations decisions. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “We have seen good rainfall in the last fewmonths in many areas of the country, which is a welcomed change after years ofdevastating droughts and low or zero allocations for our food and […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today acknowledged the release of the first MurrayDarling Basin Authority Sustainable Diversion Limits Compliance Report. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Water is one of the most regulated areas in Australia. Today’s report showing a ninety-seven percent compliance level demonstrates the commitment our farmers have to complying with […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today welcomed the Australian Government’s announcement of a suite of outcomes-focused environmental projects under the first round of the Murray-Darling Healthy Rivers Program. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The National Irrigators’ Council has long advocated for practical projects which improve the health of our rivers and wetlands. “The […] …


The Agriculture Energy Taskforce met this week to hear from key leaders as part of energytransition in Australia and to work through opportunities for agriculture industries relating tothe roll out of technologies, with a focus on regulatory costs for the agriculture sector. The cost of energy over recent years has caused significant impacts on the […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has expressed its disappointment the water portfolio hasbeen relegated from Cabinet in the recent ministerial reshuffle. Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “Water is our most precious resource and we needeffective decision making which underpins existing property rights, supports resilientcommunities and the environment, and gets the balance right for all […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council has welcomed the release of details of a new free tradeagreement between Australia and the United Kingdom. Chief Executive Officer, Isaac Jeffrey said: “Australia’s farmers, including some of our greatirrigated agriculture industries, will have access to new, lucrative markets thanks to the freetrade agreement being negotiated between Australia and the United […] …


The Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council (MinCo) is meeting this week and who knowswhat they will be talking about, says Isaac Jeffrey, Chief Executive Officer of the NationalIrrigators’ Council (NIC). “The Ministerial Council is one of the deepest information blackholes in Australian politics,”NIC CEO Isaac Jeffrey said. “It is not clear which issues will be listed […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has acknowledged the release of the AustralianCompetition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Water Markets Inquiry Final Report. NIC Chief Executive Officer Isaac Jeffrey said: “The NIC welcomes the long-awaitedrelease of the ACCC’s final report, noting while we support a number of therecommendations, we remain hesitant on others. “The water market has […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the Australian Government’sannouncement of a suite of environmental projects as part of the Northern Basin Toolkitpackage. Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia, Keith Pitt has announced $90 million (ofthe $180 million) for ten environmental projects in Queensland and New South Wales whichwill provide benefit through measures to deliver […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has today welcomed the Australian Government’sannouncement on pursuing off-farm water savings to deliver environmental water in theMurray-Darling Basin. Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia, the Hon. Keith Pitt MP, has announced theGovernment will scrap the Water Efficiency Program (WEP) and replace it with a system whichdoes not impact farmers’ water […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomed the release of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan2020 Evaluation, noting while goals are broadly being met, there is still work to be done. NIC Chairman Jeremy Morton acknowledged the work to date on implementing the Plan, butstated there were missed opportunities for the Evaluation to reinforce the triple bottom lineobjectives […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has appointed Isaac Jeffrey as ​its new Chief Executive Officer. “NIC is delighted to have Isaac Jeffrey join the Council as CEO. Isaac brings extensive private and public sector leadership experience with skills in government relations and complex policy development which are critical to navigating the challenging issues of water management […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has written to Basin Water Ministers ahead of their meeting on Friday calling for a focus on flexibility for ‘supply’ measures projects and an end to ‘black box’ decision making from Basin Governments. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “when we wrote to Ministers before their meeting in June we pointed […] …


More than 90% of Australia’s fruit, nuts and grapes; more 76% of vegetables, 100% of rice and more than 50% of dairy and sugar, came from irrigation in 2018-19 according to the latest release from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The figures are based on gross value of farm gate product and come from […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has elected Moulamein rice farmer, Jeremy Morton, as its new chairman. Jeremy Morton steps into the role after long term Chairman, Gavin McMahon, from the Riverland in South Australia retired.  NIC CEO Steve Whan said “Gavin has been NIC chair for eight years and under his leadership the organisation has […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has joined other agricultural peak groups welcoming the federal budget commitment to growing and processing food and fibre in Australia. NIC CEO, Steve Whan said “Australia’s irrigators produce more than 84% of our vegetables, fruit and nuts, along with rice, sugar, dairy and cotton, among other things.  Growing those products […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC), convenors of the Ag Energy Taskforce, says the Government’s first low emissions technologies statement is an important cog in the wheel of offering agriculture the opportunity to benefit from, and contribute to, achieving Australia’s emissions goals. NIC CEO, Steve Whan said “Minister Taylor was absolutely right about two key things […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the federal government’s $1.9 billion investment in new and emerging technologies focused on jobs, energy reliability and supporting industry capability to be part of Australia’s effort in reducing emissions.   NIC CEO Steve Whan said “We see the $1.62 billion injection of funding to the Australian Renewable Energy Agency […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the announcements on implementation of recommendations from the “Sefton” panel and other reports, saying they will help to get frustrated elements of the Basin Plan back on track. NIC CEO, Steve Whan, said “when Minister Pitt took on the water portfolio, he promised us that he recognised the […] …


Transparency, more consistent information and streamlined administration. All worthy goals for Murray Darling Basin water markets, but goals that, over two decades, have proved difficult, says National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) CEO, Steve Whan. Steve Whan was commenting on the release of the interim report into water markets from the ACCC, which foreshadows recommendations on improving […] …


Murray Darling Basin water ministers meet on Friday, and the National Irrigators Council (NIC) is saying they need to focus on getting critical ‘supply’ projects on track. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “irrigators have been expressing concern for some years about the possibility of missing the Basin Plan deadlines for implementing supply projects.  “These are […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) says comment in media today, saying more water is being taken from the Murray Darling, are assertion, without factual support. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “the joint report talking about a so-called ‘rebound effect on water extraction’, makes an heroic leap from fact on individual farm water use, to unsubstantiated […] …


The report from the Interim Murray Darling Basin Inspector General on state water shares will disappoint some, but reveals hard reality, says Steve Whan, CEO of the National Irrigators Council (NIC). Steve Whan said “the report tells us there is no new water – no miracle cure for a tortuous, and hard to understand, interstate […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) says the Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO) allocation of charges is inequitable, after infrastructure failures in Victoria left a South Australian Irrigation company with a 26,000% increase in, so-called, ‘ancillary charges’ between July 2019 and March 2020. The latest increased charges were passed through to customers after infrastructure failures in […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) submission to the Senate Select committee on the ‘Multi-Jurisdictional Management and Execution of the Murray Darling Basin Plan’  says the committee should focus its outcomes on urging full implementation of Productivity Commission recommendations; and should not seek to move boundaries of responsibility on Basin rivers. NIC CEO, Steve Whan said […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has congratulated new Minister for Water, Keith Pitt, on his appointment to a very challenging portfolio and thanked deputy Nationals leader David Littleproud for his contribution to water policy.  NIC CEO, Steve Whan, said “water minister is a very difficult job and it can be a delicate task trying to […] …


Christmas lunch would be a bit of a sad affair without the work of Australia’s irrigators says National Irrigators Council (NIC) CEO, Steve Whan. “Like many people I look forward to this time of year, to fresh summer fruit, crispy fresh vegies and those delicious Christmas extras the fruit mince pies, ice cream, custard and […] …


Threats to walk away from the Basin Plan sensibly didn’t come to pass and there was progress down the path of addressing key recommendations from the Productivity Commission, perhaps better outcomes than might have been expected – says National Irrigators Council (NIC) CEO, Steve Whan. Steve Whan said “the one thing that is abundantly clear […] …


Murray Darling Basin water Ministers face a crucial test when they meet in Brisbane on Tue 17 December says the National Irrigators’ Council (NIC). NIC CEO, Steve Whan says “the meeting will be a real test for Ministers, they can either choose parochialism and short-term electoral gain, or they can commit to work together to […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) says that while it understands the hardship driving the anger of irrigators protesting in Canberra this week, its members feel that the problems would be made worse by ditching, rather than fixing, the Basin Plan. NIC represents irrigators across the Basin states, members want to see problems addressed, but do […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) today welcomed the Federal Government’s step up in drought support measures with the once-off provision of 100 gigalitres (GL) of water in the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin. NIC Chairman, Gavin McMahon said “The announcement by the Government of 100GL as part of its drought relief package will be warmly welcomed […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) welcomes the NSW and Victorian Government independent expert panel on Basin river flows, saying it is important to focus on achieving real environmental outcomes not just ticking off flow targets.  CEO, Steve Whan, said “Victoria and NSW have started a process which should involve all Basin Governments and one, importantly, […] …


Irrigation infrastructure is designed to help Australia keep growing food and fibre in a variable climate and, Australian Bureau of Statistics (gross value of irrigated production) figures for 2017-18 show, that is exactly the job it was doing . ABS figures for 2017-18 show the proportion of Australia’s fruit and nuts (by value) produced by […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has welcomed the announcement of the terms of reference for an ACCC inquiry into the water market. CEO Steve Whan said “NIC has been highlighting concerns and advocating an inquiry into the water market for some time.  We are pleased to see the announcement by the Treasurer and Water Minister […] …


NIC CEO, Steve Whan, says “Irrigators make absolutely no apology for wanting to ensure country towns and our farmers have a future.  “That’s why when Government decides it is going to acquire water for the environment, we will always actively work to try to ensure that water is acquired through water saving rather than buyback. […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) says it looks forward to working with a new Shadow Minister for Water as Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese announces his Shadow Ministry. CEO Steve Whan said “after a very long engagement with the Murray Darling Basin Plan, former Minister and Shadow Minister, Tony Burke, has moved on to a new […] …


An MDBA and Deloitte report on water trade price reporting in the Murray Darling confirms concerns that the National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has been expressing for some time about lack of transparency, confusion and inconsistency in State water trading registers. NIC CEO, Steve Whan says “this report shows that the water market has run way […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has congratulated the newly appointed Morrison / McCormack Government Ministers saying it looks forward to working with them as they tackle difficult tasks. CEO, Steve Whan says “key Ministerial appointments for the irrigation sector include the welcome re-appointment of David Littleproud as Minister for Water, and with new roles on […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council says Labor’s Basin Plan policy, announced on Monday, could end up punishing communities and industry for failure to achieve projects that are completely beyond their control. CEO, Steve Whan, says “Labor needs to be very clear about whether it wants the best possible environmental outcomes, or if it thinks deadlines are […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council says the Coalition announcement of an ACCC inquiry into the water market is welcome and it would like to see bipartisan support. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “our election policy asked for Government action to make the water market more transparent. We welcome the announcement, though Government needs to ensure irrigators […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has released its Federal election water policy calling for the next Parliament to stick with the Basin Plan; but do more to improve river habitat.  CEO Steve Whan says “we need to ensure that environmental benefits of providing additional water are maximised. The Basin Plan will increase flow, but flow […] …


A long-term national, scientifically based, focus on maximising Australia’s ability to sustainably produce irrigated crops should be welcomed by every Australian who likes to eat and wear clothes, says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. He was responding to the pre-election announcement by the Deputy Prime Minister that, if re-elected, the Government intends to set […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council has welcomed the final report of the Independent Assessment of fish deaths on the Darling River (the Vertessy Report) and the Government response. CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council, Steve Whan, says “this is a report that is about acting to fix problems, not just about getting headlines, and that is […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) says its members do not support, and NIC does not advocate, the New South Wales government pulling out of the Murray Darling Basin Plan. CEO Steve Whan said “NIC has 34 member bodies across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, overwhelmingly those members see the Basin Plan as […] …


The hypocrisy of South Australian Senator Rex Patrick is on full view again, as he rails against spending more to protect jobs in Murray Darling Basin communities, while at the same time being a vocal advocate of hundreds of billions in taxpayer’s money being spent to build submarines in South Australia. National Irrigators’ Council CEO, […] …


Allowing native fish the opportunity to move up and down a river system so they can breed might seem obvious, but it’s an obvious solution that too often, of late, has been forgotten in the rush to allocate blame. That’s why, says Steve Whan, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council (NIC), the report released by […] …


National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan, says the Australian Academy of Science’s expert committee (requested by Labor) failed to provide balance in its hasty review of Basin Plan implementation issues. Steve Whan said “it is unrealistic to think that well researched conclusions, about a Basin Plan that has been years in the making (and has […] …


With only months to go until a Federal election the apparent slip in the bi-partisan support for the Basin Plan should cause concern to anyone interested in achieving this ambitious environmental reform. CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council, Steve Whan, says “the danger to the Plan comes, unfortunately, from the architects of the original Plan, […] …


Does anyone really think Government should tell farmers what they can grow, or ‘ban’ exports? Steve Whan, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council says the Centre Alliance’s ridiculous suggestion of banning cotton export is more in keeping with a soviet style command economy than an outward looking modern democracy. Steve Whan said “the bottom line […] …


Latest updates from NSW and Victorian water authorities confirm the dire impact of drought on irrigators in more than a dozen rivers across the Murray Darling Basin.  In NSW General Security water licence holders on the Murray, Lower Darling, Lachlan, Belubula, Macquarie Cudgegong, Lower Namoi, Gwydir, and Border Rivers all have zero allocation.  In Victoria […] …


“Royal Commissions have no magical powers, they are only as good as the information that goes in and the assumptions they make”, says Steve Whan, CEO of the National Irrigators Council, talking about today’s release of the South Australian Basin Plan Royal Commission. Steve Whan said “unfortunately in this case one of the fundamental opinions, […] …


The National Irrigators Council has welcomed the release of the final Productivity Commission Report into the first five years of implementation of the Basin Plan, saying it should be the basis for action. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “this is a tough and comprehensive review and it starkly highlights some of the very difficult challenges […] …


Farmers, rural communities and the environment all suffer in a drought crisis but none will be helped by knee jerk changes to the Basin Plan, says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. “Unfortunately virtually every day this drought continues, we are seeing unwanted records, record low inflows, record lowest ever rainfalls and record high temperature […] …


Avoiding the tragic impact on native fish of low flows, extreme temperatures and algal blooms in the river system requires factual discussion and careful planning – says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. Steve Whan said “it is always difficult to see large fish kill events whether they are from drought, algal events or […] …


The need to agree a genuine test of socio-economic neutrality for efficiency programs is one of the big challenges of this Friday’s Murray Darling Basin Ministers’ meeting (in Melbourne), says Steve Whan, CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council (NIC). Steve Whan said “Basin Ministers’ meetings are always important because the Basin Plan will not succeed […] …


ABC AUDIENCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS INVESTIGATION REPORT Background Briefing 3-part series Best laid plans: The Murray-Darling Basin in crisis 29 April, 6 May and 11 May 2018 ABC News Facebook Return Flows video post 26 April 2018 Complaints and scope of review Audience and Consumer Affairs received a total of five editorial complaints regarding Background […] …


The status quo just won’t do – that’s the message from irrigators to the Australian Energy Council (AEC) as they seek to justify cosy regulatory arrangements that see their industry rake in monopoly profits. National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan said “a couple of weeks ago we released a report from Sapere Research group which […] …


National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan says a ruling by the ABC’s Audience and Consumer Affairs unit upholding a complaint about coverage of the Murray Darling Basin plan by ABC’s Background Briefing is welcome and reinforces the need for balance in coverage. Steve Whan said, “NIC among others made complaints about a Background Briefing story […] …


Our energy network owners must be living in a parallel universe if they think Australia’s job generating agricultural sector should be pleased to be paying unjustified profits says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. Steve Whan said “last week NIC on behalf of the Agricultural Industries Energy Taskforce released a report that showed the energy […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) on behalf of the Agricultural Industries Energy Taskforce (the Taskforce) has released a damning independent report showing that profits made by electricity networks are more than $2.6 billion higher than they should be – meaning electricity bills are much higher than is justified, just with network costs. The independent report […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council has welcomed strong action by Government to give regulators more teeth to crack down on excessive profits by electricity companies and ensure a genuine competitive market. CEO Steve Whan said, “the announcement by the Prime Minister, Treasurer and Energy Minister is a very welcome commitment to a strong follow-up on the […] …


The National Irrigators’ Council says its members support Government exploring all options to assist irrigators and other farmers affected by drought – within the current water rules. NIC CEO Steve Whan said “many irrigators are on zero allocations and that is very tough, we certainly appreciate local MPs and the Deputy Prime Minister being strong […] …


The Productivity Commission’s draft report following itsfive-year review of the Murray Darling Basin Plan provides a wake up call on some of the challenges regardingthe practical implementation of the Basin Plan, says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. Steve Whan said “it would be hard to argue with the draft report’s statement that the next […] …


National Irrigators Council CEO, Steve Whan, says the appointment of former AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty as the Murray Darling Basin “Northern Basin Commissioner”,is welcome. Steve Whan said “creating this oversight position was an important part of the agreement between the Government and the Opposition, that put the Basin Plan back on track, earlier this year. […] …


Locally grown, fresh and brought to you by an Australian irrigator – that’s the story of most fresh vegetables, fruit and nuts in your local market says National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan. “In fact” says Steve Whan “more than 84% of Australian vegetables (by $ value) are grown by irrigators, 84% of fruit and […] …


Argument and blame shifting must come to an end when energy Ministers meet this Friday to discuss the design of the National Energy Guarantee (NEG). National Irrigators’ Council CEO, Steve Whan said “Friday’s meeting must mark the end of years of bickering over energy policy, which is undermining the nation’s agricultural competitiveness and putting at […] …


Jerilderie farmer, Louis Kelly, has sold his entire stock of 7,000 large bales of hay since May and he isn’t the only one if the huge number of trucks heading north from the Riverina and Murray are any indication. Louis Kelly’s fodder has gone to graziers in the Tamworth and Armidale areas. But Kelly is […] …


An independent report has confirmed that our food and fibre producers are paying up to $6,000 a year more than the real cost of supplying them power. The report, by Sapere research group, was commissioned by the Agriculture Industries Energy Taskforce with funding from Energy Consumers Australia. It is based on a survey of irrigators […] …


We callit “a failed market”, the ACCC calls it “largely broken”, either way today’s ACCC report into electricity prices makes it very clear that, if firm action is not taken, Australians will have less jobs, more expensive food and fibre and a loss of international competitiveness. That’s the view of National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) CEO, […] …


The National Irrigators Council (NIC) has welcomed the signing back into law of the Basin Plan’s Northern Basin amendment, with CEO, Steve Whan, saying it was a positive outcome of good work between Government and Opposition, to deliver for communities and the environment. Steve Whan said “the Northern Basin amendment is important for a couple […] …


National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) CEO, Steve Whan, says a Senate vote to approve an amendment to the Water Act was a strong show of bi-partisan political support for delivering the Basin Plan in full. Steve Whan said “thelegislation approved this week by the Senate enables the Minister to reintroduce amendments to the Basin Plan to […] …

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News & Media from Member Organisations

Irrigation Australia Media Release: Murray system reaches full allocation before spring making river operators and landholders ‘

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Bayer Australian Cotton Grower of the Year Field day

Bayer Australian Cotton Grower of the Year Field day

Bayer and Dirranbandi Cotton Growers invite you to the Australian Cotton Grower of the Year Field Day at Clyde in Dirranbandi, Western Queensland.

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