Review of Schedule D of the Murray-Darling Basin Agreement

Customer Challenge:

The Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) was tasked with reviewing Schedule D of the Murray-Darling Basin Agreement, which outlines the arrangements for processing and accounting for interstate trade within the basin. The challenge was to ensure that the review would enhance the transparency, efficiency, and flexibility of trade arrangements while effectively engaging with various interjurisdictional stakeholders.

Ricardo Solution:

Ricardo was engaged to lead the review process in two phases, focusing on:

• Stakeholder Engagement: We facilitated extensive consultations with interjurisdictional stakeholders to gather insights on current challenges and opportunities regarding Schedule D.
• Issue and Solution Analysis: We analyzed existing issues affecting Schedule D's operation and identified potential solutions to enhance market confidence and operational efficiency.
• Documentation and Recommendations: Our team documented findings in accessible reports and drafted recommended changes to Schedule D, providing clear, actionable recommendations.
• Synthesis of Recommendations: A total of 29 key recommendations were developed, focusing on improving transparency, flexibility, and administrative efficiency in interstate trade.

Customer benefit:

Ricardo's review provided the MDBA with actionable recommendations that significantly improved the operational framework of Schedule D. By enhancing transparency and confidence in market decisions and facilitating more flexible trade provisions, the MDBA is better positioned to manage interstate trade effectively, supporting sustainable water management in the Murray-Darling Basin.