Controller of Water Resources visits Marrakai farmers
With the 30 July 2026 deadline for streamlined water licensing (known as the Section 71M process) for the Darwin Rural Adelaide River Water Control District approaching, the Controller of Water Resources travelled to Marrakai to meet directly with local farmers and water licence holders.
The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the process and answer questions from existing water users. The streamlined process gives eligible existing water users a simplified way to apply for an ongoing water licence before 30 July 2026, with the Controller explaining what the upcoming deadline means and how it may affect them. After this date, the streamlined process will conclude, and there is no guarantee that water will be available to support new licence applications. Water licensing helps build a better understanding of groundwater use, supporting the sustainable management of the aquifers that provide water for agriculture, communities and the environment.
Conversations on the ground
Rather than delivering a formal presentation, the Controller chose to spend time meeting with farmers on their properties. This approach recognised that every farming operation is different and that meaningful discussions are often best had in the context of the individual business. Speaking directly with licence holders provided an opportunity to discuss the streamlined licensing alongside their own circumstances, including their water use, operational needs and future plans. It also allowed farmers to ask questions, raise concerns and have open conversations about the practical implications of the transition.
The visit included tours of several farms across the Marrakai region, providing valuable insight into the diversity of agricultural operations and the important role groundwater plays in supporting them. Seeing irrigation systems in operation and hearing directly from farmers about the opportunities and challenges they face helped strengthen the connection between water policy and regulation and its practical application on the ground.
Building understanding
These conversations reinforced the value of engaging directly with licence holders. While technical assessments, groundwater science and legislative frameworks underpin water management decisions, understanding how those decisions intersect with day-to-day farming operations provides important context. Face-to-face engagement helps build that understanding, supports informed decision-making and fosters constructive relationships between the department and the people who rely on the Territory's groundwater resources.
As the 30 July 2026 deadline approaches, the visit demonstrated the importance of maintaining open communication with licence holders, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the process and confidence in the pathway ahead.
