Responding to water availability in the Murray-Darling Basin - Australian Water School
24/07/2026

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Responding to water availability in the Murray-Darling Basin

Adaption, innovation and community development in the Murray–Darling Basin: responses to water availability

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About

Join us for an insightful webinar and panel discussion exploring the dynamics of the irrigated agriculture sector in the Murray-Darling Basin and the rural communities it sustains. Further details below.

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Presenters

Geoff Cockfield

One Basin CRC | University of Southern Queensland

Professor Cockfield is the Capability & Commercialisation Program Lead at One Basin CRC, Executive Director, the Institute for Resilient Regions and Director of, the Centre for Sustainable Agricul... Read more

Panel Members

Amanda Howard

University of Sydney

Amanda Howard is a Professor of Social Work at University of Sydney. Amanda is involved in teaching and research in all things related to communities. That includes encouraging closer, fairer and more... Read more

Kym Walton

One Basin CRC

Kym has over 23 years’ experience in the water and environment industry having worked in roles in program management, regional service delivery, regulation, policy, and compliance with the South Aus... Read more

Ben Fee

RDAMR

With a strong background and extensive understanding of the region, built throughout his twelve-year career in South Australian Government, Ben is passionate about sustainable development throughout t... Read more

Over time, the Murray-Darling Basin communities have faced significant social and economic pressures, reshaping farming systems and industries, and altering the economic and social fabric of rural areas.

In the context of the Murray-Darling Basin, we’ll delve into four interconnected factors exacerbating long-standing pressures on farm businesses and communities:

  • Declining river inflows due to climate change and variability
  • Caps on diversions
  • The emergence of water markets within these caps
  • Government-initiated water buybacks

Our webinar will dissect how these factors intersect, and importantly, how they impact the social, economic, and environmental landscape. We’ll explore potential solutions through a coordinated approach to structural adjustment and community development.

At the heart of our discussion is a One Basin discussion paper, serving as our roadmap. Leading the dialogue will be Professor Geoff Cockfield, who will present key insights from the paper. Following his presentation, we’ll engage in a dynamic panel discussion, delving deeper into the implications and opportunities presented.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to the conversation shaping the future of irrigated agriculture and rural communities. Register now to secure your spot!

Sponsored by One Basin CRC

One Basin CRC is a collaborative effort involving 85 partners dedicated to building a productive, resilient and sustainable Murray-Darling Basin. The Australian Water School, a business unit of Water Research Australia, proudly stands among these partners.

 

In collaboration with:

 

Contact Us: +61 8 7424 2294 | [email protected]
awschool.com.au/training/water-availability-murray-darling/