The appointment of former CEO of the Climate Change Authority, Anthea Harris, to oversee the Water Act Review has sparked significant concern among regional communities in Australia. Ross Cadell, the Shadow Minister for Water, Fisheries and Forestry, expressed his discontent, stating that this decision poses a threat to the country’s food security and the livelihoods of thousands in regional areas.
Cadell criticized the government for selecting Harris, asserting that while she has a commendable background in regulation and government, her lack of experience within the water sector raises serious questions. “It is disappointing that they couldn’t find a water expert to lead a review of such importance,” he remarked.
The Senator emphasized that appointing someone with a focus on climate regulation may skew the review’s outcome before it even begins. He remarked, “This appointment is indicative of the Labor Party’s disinterest in regional Australia,” and warned that it could result in reduced water supply, further burdening an already struggling agricultural sector.
Cadell pointed to the review’s Terms of Reference, which he claims prioritize environmental outcomes at the expense of irrigators and regional communities. He highlighted that the focus on optimizing the use of environmental water could undermine the needs of those who rely on it for their livelihoods.
“Environmental water is crucial to water policy; however, it is becoming unmanageable, and the effectiveness of its delivery is failing,” he stated. Cadell urged the government to reassess how environmental water can be utilized to benefit both regions and the environment, rather than imposing further restrictions that adversely affect local communities.
As discussions around the Water Act Review continue, the agricultural sector remains on high alert. With regional communities heavily reliant on the outcomes of this review, there is a growing sentiment that the current approach could lead to increased costs for food, fibre, and the water necessary for agricultural production.
In summary, the decision to appoint Harris as overseer of the review has ignited a debate over the balance between environmental regulations and the needs of regional Australians. Cadell’s concerns reflect broader anxieties about the future of agricultural practices and food security in Australia.
