The Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO), of which Federation Council is a supportive member, has appointed Claire Miller Consulting to provide research and submission support as RAMJO prepares its response to the 2026 Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review.
RAMJO Chair Cr Ruth McRae OAM said the appointment will strengthen RAMJO's capacity to develop a clear, evidence-based submission reflecting the priorities of Riverina and Murray communities.
"The Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review is a critical opportunity to ensure future settings deliver real environmental outcomes while recognising the socio-economic realities for Basin communities," Cr McRae said.
"RAMJO has appointed Claire Miller Consulting following an Expression of Interest process to provide targeted policy research, analysis and drafting support to help shape a rigorous, well-referenced submission on behalf of our member councils."
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook said Federation Council is proud to stand with its ten neighbour councils in this joint effort.
"This specialist support will allow us to move beyond high-level concerns and present the MDBA with a clear, evidence-based roadmap that protects the future of our region's water security," Mayor Cook said.
"The 2026 Murray-Darling Basin Plan Review is a turning point for our region. By working through RAMJO, Federation Council is advocating for a plan that delivers genuine environmental health without compromising the long-term viability of the communities that rely on the Riverina and Murray systems."
Under the engagement, the consultant will support RAMJO across key components of submission development, including policy issue mapping, stakeholder and ally identification, socio-economic and environmental analysis, and preparation of a structured draft and final submission for RAMJO member review. Cr McRae said the work program is designed to provide RAMJO with progressive briefings and deliverables across February-April 2026, supporting member councils to give timely direction as the review consultation progresses.
Claire Miller is an experienced water policy and communications professional with longstanding involvement in Basin policy reform and stakeholder engagement, including with local government across the NSW Riverina and northern Victoria.
