Greater Shepparton City Council is intensifying its advocacy and engagement efforts to ensure local community and industry voices are heard as part of the Murray Darling Basin Plan (MDBP) review, with public submissions closing on 1 May 2026.
In summary:
- Council is working hard to make sure local voices are heard during the review of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
- Leaders met with government officials to discuss how water policies affect the region's farming, jobs, and economy.
- The goal is to protect water security for Greater Shepparton.
- Residents and businesses are encouraged to have their say by making a submission before the May 1, 2026, deadline.
As part of its water advocacy program, Council is undertaking targeted engagement activities to encourage community and stakeholder participation in the review process, while also directly contributing feedback to decision‑makers at a regional and national level.
As part of the Murray–Darling Basin Authority's (MDBA) formal consultation process, Mayor, Cr Shane Sali, Deputy Mayor, Cr Geoff Akers, Chief Executive Officer Fiona Le Gassick, and Council staff met with representatives from the MDBA, the Australian Government, the Victorian Government, and members of the Murray Darling Association. The meeting provided an opportunity to contribute directly to the review of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan and inform future directions.
The meeting allowed Council to discuss key issues raised in the MDBP discussion paper, seek clarification on proposed changes, and convey the priorities and concerns of the Greater Shepparton community directly to MDBA executive management. The information gathered in this session will support Council in the development of its formal submission to the MDBP review, while assisting local stakeholders to do the same.
Council's engagement will continue later in the week, with Mayor, Cr Sali and Deputy Mayor, Cr Akers, invited to attend a stakeholder session in Echuca with Federal Minister for Environment and Water, Murray Watt.
The meeting will focus on water policy matters relevant to northern Victoria and will involve agriculture peak bodies and local government representatives. Council's involvement ensures our region's status as the food bowl of Australia is recognised in key discussions, with water playing a driving force in our region's economic success, on both a domestic and export level.
Mayor, Cr Sali said these discussions were critical to ensuring regional perspectives help shape the future of Basin management.
"Council has long advocated for water policy settings that protect regional communities, agriculture and the local economy. Water policy decisions have long‑term impacts on our community, our industries and our environment," he said.
"Every litre of water supports our farmers, local jobs and businesses, and underpins the strength of our regional economy. Council is committed to strong advocacy and to ensuring local voices are front and centre during the Murray–Darling Basin Plan review."
Cr Akers said Greater Shepparton's role as Australia's food bowl means water security is fundamental to the region's economy, industries and community wellbeing.
"Water management decisions have long‑term implications for our economy, environment and livelihoods. Getting the next Basin Plan right is essential to supporting continued agricultural productivity, safeguarding local jobs and securing the long‑term sustainability of our region," he said.
"This review is a critical opportunity for our community and industries to share their local knowledge and lived experience, and to highlight the practical impacts of water policy decisions. I strongly urge residents, businesses and industry groups to make a submission to ensure Greater Shepparton's priorities and perspectives are reflected in future water policy settings."
Council strongly encourages residents, businesses and industry groups to take the time to review the discussion paper and make a submission before the 1 May 2026 deadline, as every voice matters in shaping the future of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan for our region.
Submissions can be made directly via the Murray–Darling Basin Authority's public consultation website.
