With the year drawing to a close, the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) has set the tone for a significant year ahead, outlining climate pressures, community priorities and Basin-wide updates that will shape the 2026 Basin Plan Review. The December Authority meeting in Canberra brought together members to assess the Murray–Darling Basin outlook, with a clear message that below-average inflows and sustained dry conditions remain a challenge across the system.
What dry conditions mean for system operations
Members received updates noting that inflows to the River Murray and tributaries have tracked well below long-term averages, confirming the need for careful system management over summer and into 2026. An updated River Murray System Annual Operating Outlook is expected soon, reflecting the operational response to persistent dryness.
The MDBA emphasised that the Murray–Darling Basin outlook will continue to guide how authorities prepare for the coming year, particularly as climate variability intensifies pressure on both water security and ecological outcomes.
How First Nations engagement is shaping the 2026 Basin Plan Review
A major focus of the meeting was attendance at the December Conversation, where more than 130 First Nations representatives from across the Basin shared their priorities directly with the Authority. This dialogue will be a critical component of Basin Plan Review preparations, with cultural values and community-led insights informing how environmental water and planning frameworks evolve.
The Authority also approved the annual report on First Nations participation in environmental watering, which outlines how environmental water holders considered cultural values during the past water year. This work continues to expand the role of Traditional Owners in shaping water decisions.
How the MDBA is progressing the 2026 Basin Plan Review
The Authority reviewed key elements of the Basin Plan Review program, including outcomes from the November Senior Officials Group workshop and progress toward releasing the Basin Plan Review Discussion Paper in early 2026.
Updated climate science, hydrological modelling and community insight will underpin the review. The Authority also noted upcoming discussions at the Murray–Darling Basin Ministerial Council, where funding and management of Joint Programs remain a priority for 2026.
Members approved updates to the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism Register of Measures, along with the Basin Plan Annual Report 2024–25, which captures implementation achievements not detailed in the year’s formal evaluation.
Support from Basin communities continues to shape decisions
The Basin Community Committee (BCC) provided the Authority with feedback on local issues, community expectations and concerns, all of which remain vital inputs into the upcoming Basin Plan Review. The Authority acknowledged the value of this advice, particularly as drought conditions tighten and regional communities look for long-term certainty.
Looking ahead to the next phase of Basin management
As the MDBA closed its final meeting of 2025, members noted the significant contribution of MDBA staff who manage the River Murray System and lead Basin Plan implementation. Strong leadership, transparent communication and evidence-based decision-making will remain central as the Authority prepares for a major review year.
The Murray–Darling Basin outlook makes one thing clear: 2026 will be a defining year for shaping sustainable water management and maintaining trust across Basin communities.