The Andrews Labor Government is establishing an advisory panel of experts to support Goulburn-Murray Water in ensuring a prosperous and productive irrigation district across Northern Victoria.
The advisory panel will report to the Minister for Water and the GMW Board, and will provide options to ensure GMW is best placed to take advantage of the $2 billion Connections Project.
The panel will also provide advice on how to deliver efficient, cost-effective services to GMW customers, and any changes to current strategic direction, and how to promote and encourage further investment in the region.
The development of GMW’s strategic plan started in October 2016 and has incorporated extensive consultation with customers, stakeholders and staff. The panel’s work will complement GMW’s strategic plan.
The panel will consist of Chair Mike Walsh and panel members David Heeps and Suzanne Ewart – who bring skills in project management, strategic planning and finance. It will provide recommendations to Minister Neville and the GMW board in January 2018.
The panel is the result of the community identifying the need for a clear strategic direction for the region to provide confidence in a sustainable, cost effective irrigation district and ensure local landholders and growers have confidence to continue to grow their businesses.
GMW is Victoria’s largest rural water authority and covers approximately one third of the state, including the largest irrigation asset in the country – Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District – which generates $2.1 billion in agricultural production each year.
GMW are responsible for storing, managing, and delivering about 70 per cent of the state’s water and are central to the delivery of major projects like the $2 billion Connections Project, which is delivering vital upgrades for irrigators in the district.
For further details of the terms of reference head to the website, water.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“I have established a Strategic Advisory Panel to drive investment in the region and support GMW to ensure cost effective services are delivered for customers and better support the irrigation district into the future.”
“We want to build confidence in the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District and GMW can play a vital role in leading regional development and prosperity in the region.”
Quotes attributable to Goulburn Murray Water Chair Jo Anderson
“I have spoken to Minister Neville about our strategic direction and we agree that this extra expertise will support us in implementing plans for GMW into the future.”
“We want to ensure the best services and tariff structure are in place for our customers and also provide leadership to position the region as an attractive destination for investment and regional development.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020