A Threat to Farmers and the Environment
Water theft in the Murray-Darling Basin is a serious issue that poses a significant threat to both farmers and the environment. A new study has found that inconsistencies in water laws between states are making it more difficult to prevent and punish theft, jeopardizing water security for primary producers who rely on the basin.
Sam Dodd, a fifth-generation dairy farmer in South Australia, has witnessed the impact of water theft firsthand. Located in the Lower Lakes, his farm is one of only two remaining dairy farms in the Coorong, highlighting the vulnerability of the region to water scarcity. Dodd emphasizes the need to protect the limited water resources and expresses concern about the practice of floodplain harvesting, which he believes diverts water away from legitimate users.
The study, authored by Associate Professor Adam Loch from the University of Adelaide, examined the different approaches to water theft policy adopted by various states. The research was prompted by comments made by the Inspector-General of Water Compliance, Troy Grant, who expressed frustration with the challenges of tackling water theft due to inconsistencies in state legislation and a lack of support.
The Inspector-General dropped 62 cases in February 2023, citing these challenges. Dr. Loch believes that this lack of enforcement has significant consequences, particularly for the environment, which is vulnerable to theft due to limited monitoring.
Murray-Darling Basin Authority chief executive Andrew McConville acknowledges the need for collaboration between states to address the issue. He emphasizes that while water management is a state responsibility, a coordinated approach is crucial to ensure water security and environmental sustainability.
The study highlights the urgent need for consistent and effective water theft policies across all states within the Murray-Darling Basin. This will require collaboration between governments, law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that water resources are protected and used sustainably. Failure to address this issue will have severe consequences for the livelihoods of farmers, the health of the environment, and the long-term viability of the basin.