Water Amendment (Ending Further Murray-Darling Basin Water Buybacks) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 15 October 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
   See who spoke

2. Thursday 15 October 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned a bill to prohibit the Commonwealth from purchasing additional permanent surface water entitlements in the Murray-Darling Basin if such purchases would increase the government's total share. The National Party argued this measure was necessary to protect regional communities and food security from the economic distortions caused by further buybacks. The speaker highlighted a significant shortfall in infrastructure projects intended to deliver environmental water, arguing that farmers should not bear the cost of government failure. The bill also introduced annual reporting requirements for Commonwealth water contracts to ensure transparency. The debate was adjourned after the opening speech.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned after leave was granted for McKenzie to continue her remarks later.

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