NATIONAL IRRIGATORS’ COUNCIL

POLICY POSITION STATEMENTS

Advocating for the Australian irrigated agriculture industry

National Irrigators’ Council policy is determined by members and underpinned by our Mission and Values within our Strategic Plan and our Policy Principles, our Values and Objectives.

Members can determine that specific issues may require a unique Policy Position.  Position Statements are clear, concise formal position on Public Policy Positions.

Positions are progressed by the organisation through sub-committees and/or reference groups and member feedback sessions and debate.
They are agreed by resolution of members at one of three general meetings of Council throughout the year. These position statements together with our policy principles form the basis of our submissions to Government policy and inquiries and other initiatives.

Our Policy Principles

Enhance and protect water property rights without altering the characteristics through

Utilise market mechanisms to ensure no negative third-party impacts on water reliability or availability; compensate or mitigate any impacts by negotiation with affected parties.

Governments must effectively engage industry in policy development and implementation.

Fair and equitable policy must share risks and opportunities among all stakeholders not just water users, ensuring a balance.


Recently Agreed Position Statements


Reliability of Water Access Entitlements


NIC Members agreed to a specific Position Statement on the reliability of water access entitlements to provide a clear message to Governments on how decisions impact water property rights, as represented and agreed in the National Water Initiative.

This position statement was prepared in conjunction with our guiding principles.

Approved 17 July 2025.


Enabling Cultural objectives in water management

NIC Members agreed to amend and update our Aboriginal Water Position Statement, and agreed to the following Position Statement titled 'enabling Cultural objectives in water management'.

This position statement was prepared in conjunction with our Murray-Darling Basin Position Statement and our Positon Statement on reliability of water entitlements and our guiding principles. 

Approved 17 July 2025.


SDLAM Reconciliation Position Statement

NIC Members agreed to a Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) Reconciliation Position Statement following the release of the MDBA's SDLAM Reconciliation Framework.

This position statement was prepared in conjunction with our Murray-Darling Basin Position Statement, our Constraints Management Position Statement and our guiding principles. 

Approved 20 March 2025.

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