The Department of Planning and Environment sought applications from community members for membership to the Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Advisory Group. The Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Advisory Group (EWAG) is convened by the Biodiversity and Conservation Division of the Department of Planning and Environment.
The Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Advisory Group provides advice to the department on the use of water for the environment in the Murrumbidgee Valley for its water-dependent ecosystems. An Environmental Water Advisory Group may include water managers, recreational fishers, landholders, First Nations peoples, environmental scientists, a variety of community and stakeholder groups, and government and non-government partner agencies.
Suitable applicants will contribute their local knowledge and relevant experience as advice to guide the beneficial use of water for the environment. Environmental Water Advisory Group members will actively participate in providing information, analysis and recommendations from their vantage point in the local community or as a representative of a stakeholder group, to assist environmental water managers with annual watering priorities, adaptive management and implementation of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
Areas of learning and expertise we seek include the knowledge and experience of:
- First Nations peoples
- floodplain and wetland management
- water management
- environmental science
- related community interests.
Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Advisory Group membership appointments are for up to 5 years. The Environmental Water Advisory Group meets quarterly and will also undertake occasional field trips during some meetings.
Environmental Water Advisory Group memberships are not paid appointments. However, in line with the Environmental Water Advisory Group Terms of Reference (6.8), members are compensated for their time and Environmental Water Advisory Group-related expenses, including travel, accommodation and meals. The daily sitting fee is $220, and private vehicle mileage is paid at the standard government rate. Members will receive payment within a fortnight after the meeting date. Advance payments can be made if required via arrangement.
Applications closed 18 December 2022.