Without Notice

Bill Debate · Second Reading

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

Senate · Thursday 15 October 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

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.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Bridget McKenzie (VIC) (National Party) Nationals

McKenzie moved the second reading of the bill, arguing it would stop the Commonwealth from increasing its share of permanent Basin surface water. McKenzie contended that further buybacks distort markets, raise water prices, and threaten the viability of irrigation communities and national food security. McKenzie cited a shortfall of 265 gigalitres in the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism, noting that only 22 of 39 projects were expected to be operational by the deadline. McKenzie asserted that the government should not force farmers to surrender water to compensate for failed infrastructure promises. The bill was presented as a way to provide certainty for investors and businesses while maintaining existing rights and compensation standards.

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