The Australian Water Brokers Association (AWBA) held its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 19 October at the Novotel, Melbourne Airport. Across the formal agenda, members worked through a comprehensive set of policy, operational and industry challenges.

Key discussion points included:

Addressing inconsistencies in market documentation and information across states, with a view to improving transparency, user experience, and interoperability.

Requesting urgent guidance from state governments and the ACCC to support consistent interpretation of market rules and intermediary requirements.

Clarifying the practical implications of current and future Commonwealth buyback programs, including impacts on entitlement markets, reliability and regional communities.

Continuing the development of improved online member resources and website redevelopment, ensuring members have better access to information, updates and support tools.

These items will be progressed, with updates provided to members.

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Guest Speakers – Key Insights

The AGM featured presentations from senior government and market representatives, each offering valuable perspective on current market conditions and upcoming policy challenges.

Commonwealth Water Minister’s Office

The Ministerial Advisor provided an update on the Federal Government’s water recovery strategies.
The key outtake was that Government remains committed to achieving Sustainable Diversion Limit recovery targets but is receptive to industry feedback. While the recently announced extension to EOI 1 and 2 appears locked in, we encourage all members to continue to push for the minimisation of buybacks from the productive sector and for more quantifiable environmental targets than just adding volume to buyback targets.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)

Representatives from the ACCC spoke on implementation of the Water Markets Intermediary Code and broader compliance expectations.
The ACCC aims to support industry through the transition. Operators are encouraged to engage early if they face compliance challenges or structural constraints. The goal is consistent national compliance, not punitive enforcement of businesses acting in good faith.

Northern Victorian Resource Manager

A market update highlighted continuing dry conditions in key catchments, with the Murray system being supported by tributary flows and storage in Menindee.
Whilst the system remains stable for now, next year could become challenging if seasonal conditions do not improve. The importance of careful planning and transparent management was emphasized.

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Looking Ahead

The AGM reaffirmed the AWBA’s commitment to:

• Proactive engagement with government and regulators

• Focus on improved national consistency in water market operation

• Push for clearer standards, documentation and compliance pathways

• Support members to navigate regulatory transition and policy reform

The discussions highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing the water market as the sector evolves under new regulatory frameworks and ongoing environmental variability.

Discussion notes have been circulated to members.

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The AWBA thanks all speakers, members and guests for their participation and contribution to a productive and forward-looking AGM.