The Murray Darling Basin Authority said it understands the keen desire of communities, environmental groups and irrigators to see the proposals as soon as possible but believes it is important that the proposals be based on the most comprehensive knowledge possible.

The Authority has been undertaking further work to improve some of the social and economic elements of the guide’s contents.

The Authority will continue to carry out such work until the proposed Basin Plan is released.

The guide is the first part of a three-stage process consisting of the guide, the release of the proposed MDB Plan and the final Basin Plan.

The guide will give stakeholders an overview of the proposed Basin Plan ahead of its release and an additional opportunity for feedback before the formal consultation and submission process begins.