A COMMITTEE that provides independent, strategic advice to the Murray-Darling Basin Authority has welcomed a new chairperson and two new members.
MDBA chief executive Andrew McConville said the Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Sciences provide skills and expertise in fields of hydrology, ecology and resilience, First Nations knowledge, water governance and law, social, and sustainable systems.
“When it comes to the basin, there are many and often competing views on how best to manage our rivers and deliver water when and where it is needed,” Mr McConville said.
“Our work has very real impacts on basin communities, businesses, and the environment. Having access to independent scientific expertise, research and First Nations knowledge is an enormous advantage and forms an essential input to our decision making at the MDBA.
“Members bring decades of combined scientific knowledge and research expertise to the committee. All Australians, especially basin communities, can have confidence our best and brightest minds are helping us meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
The committee made a commitment to meet more frequently to continue progress.
“The two new ACSEES members bring strong environmental, climate and water management experience to the Committee, helping ensure the implementation of the basin plan remains on track and that regulatory reform through the 2026 Review can stand the test of time,” chair Professor William Young said.
Prof Sam Capon and Ass Prof Avril Horne were appointed to the committee through a “merit-based process”.
Prof Nick Bond, Prof Sue Jackson, Ass Prof Rebecca Nelson, and Prof Mike Stewardsonhave all been reappointed to the committee. Prof Anne Poelina will continue her role as the First Nations member.
