Progress is accelerating on a suite of water infrastructure works across southern New South Wales under projects funded through the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM), supporting environmental objectives of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan while maintaining water availability for communities and agriculture.
Backed by $446 million from the Australian Government, the program is being delivered in partnership with the NSW Government and focuses on modernising infrastructure to improve the efficiency and precision of environmental water delivery. More than 20 construction packages have been contracted under the SDLAM Acceleration Program, representing around $120 million in investment across 50 locations and placing emphasis on regional employment and local supply chains.
Among the most advanced works is the Yanco Creek Modernisation Project, where major contracts have been awarded to replace two large regulators on Billabong Creek at Wanganella and Hartwood. Elsewhere, four newly built bridges over Tuppal Creek are close to being handed over to landholders, improving fish movement and stream connectivity while preserving property access during environmental watering.
In Millewa Forest, within Murray Valley National Park, infrastructure upgrades are underway at five regulator sites, with completion expected by mid to late 2026. These works are designed to enhance habitat conditions and support native fish populations. Construction activity is also progressing in Koondrook–Perricoota Forest, including a 5.9-kilometre earthen levee at Shear Paddock and replacement of regulators and block banks to allow higher flows into key forest areas.
Yanga National Park is seeing preparatory works to strengthen access tracks required for SDLAM construction and ongoing WaterNSW operations, involving upgrades across more than 20 kilometres of trail.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said, “The Albanese Government is committed to delivering the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in a way that balances the needs of communities, industries and the environment.”
NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson added, “We know there’s still a long way to go, but it’s great to see the SDLAM projects gaining momentum because this infrastructure is vital in helping us get the best outcomes for these precious ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.”
