Labor should urgently reinstate the cross-portfolio water day as part of Estimates after the crucial topic was again shelved during this week’s program of hearings, despite a recent report finding an additional $1.3 billion in taxpayer funds was required to meet the Government’s target to return 450 gigalitres of water to the Murray-Darling Basin.

The findings came as part of the third review of the Water for the Environment Special Account (WESA), which also found that of the $331 million allocated to the Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) no funds had reached the community as at the end of September.

Federal Nationals Senator for New South Wales, and Shadow Minister for Water, Fisheries and Forestry, and Emergency Management, Ross Cadell, described the findings as further evidence the cross-portfolio day was required.

“When Labor and The Greens cuddle in the corner, Regional Australia loses out,” Cadell said.

“Since Labor came to Government, water governance in this country has descended into chaos and incompetence.

“Whether it be the findings of the review into the WESA, overdue water resource plans, or the upcoming review of the Murray Darling Basin plan, a greater level of transparency is needed to ensure your money is being used wisely in the water sector.

“Now is a time for more examination not less.”

“Water Day” as it was affectionately known provided an important opportunity to probe and understand complex issues within the water sector. Earlier this year, Labor and The Greens voted to abolish the day, instead having the subject absorbed into the already hectic ‘Environment and Communications’ hearings program.