Campaspe Shire Council is deeply concerned following the announcement by the Federal Government to expand water buybacks in the Southern Connected Murray Darling Basin by an additional 130 gigalitres (GL). This is on top of the 1,400 GL already purchased under the Murray Darling Basin Plan water buyback scheme.
Following the announcement, Campaspe Shire Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Crs Daniel Mackrell and Tony Marwood met with Federal Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell and the Shadow Minister for Water, Senator Ross Cadell in Shepparton, alongside leaders from Greater Shepparton and Moira Shire Councils, to voice their strong opposition to the announcement.
The meeting reinforced the united stance of local government leaders against further water buybacks and highlighted the urgent need for alternative solutions that protect both river health and regional economies.
Cr Mackrell stated the decision to increase voluntary water purchases by an additional 130 GL, on top of the 1,400 GL already taken out of productive use, poses a serious threat to the future of agriculture, horticulture, and food security across our region.
"Every litre of water removed from farms means fewer crops, less milk, and reduced output from orchards and processing plants.
"We want to know where the water is being purchased from so can we understand and prepare our local communities for potential impacts.
"This is not just about farmers - it's about jobs, local businesses, and affordable food for families nationwide.
"The flow-on effects from further buybacks will be devastating for regional and rural communities," said the mayor.
Cr Marwood echoed the mayor's sentiments saying, "Water is the backbone of this community. These measures must not come at the expense of livelihoods.
"Local governments are expected to manage the social and economic consequences of federal and state government decisions, so we need to be provided with the funding and support to meet these responsibilities.
"Our regions need to be compensated in other sectors such as energy, education and workers housing in order for people to reskill and for new industries to grow," Cr Marwood added.
Campaspe Shire Council is urging the Australian Government to immediately advise local governments of the specific locations of water buybacks in order to fully understand the loss, and subsequent socio-economic impacts on Campaspe's industries and communities.
Council is calling for robust adjustment packages to safeguard jobs, support local businesses, and drive new opportunities that will secure the future growth of our municipality.
"As we continue to advocate for an exciting and sustainable future for Campaspe, we must work hand-in-hand with farmers, growers, processors, and regional communities to protect the viability of Australia's vital food-producing regions," Cr Mackrell said.
Photo: Cr Tony Marwood discussing the implications of the water buy backs with local dairy farmer and Dairy Farmers Victoria Committee member, Ann Gardiner earlier this year.
