Since the dawn of civilisation, humanity has constructed water-diverting and storage facilities to ensure survival during droughts, maintain food security, and protect against floods.
Australia is a country of droughts and flooding rains.
Time and again, it has been proven that we are not immune to the trials of drought and the deficiencies in our food supply chain security.
During periods of flooding, we have witnessed the collapse of major infrastructure systems, threatening housing, human safety, and exposing flaws in our food supply security.
Australia's population is growing at 2.68 per cent annually and is projected to reach approximately 48 million by 2048.
Simultaneously, we are reducing our food production capacity and food security, inflating food prices, and increasing national debt without economic or social justification.
Tanya Plibersek, a key figure in the federal ministry, holds significant influence and resources to execute water buybacks, under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, a move that appeals to ill-informed, environmentally muddled voters, especially those in Sydney and Melbourne inner-city electorates.
However, beyond political career building, there is no compelling urgency to buy back water from Australia's food production base.
The Murray-Darling Basin Plan is approaching a critical review, set to be finalised by mid-2026.
The findings from this review will determine the necessity, urgency, and economic impact of water buybacks on all Australians.
Until this review is completed, and the science is authenticated, buybacks should be halted.
Yours etc,
David Farley
Speak Up Campaign deputy chair
Narrandera
12°C