NAB’s head of agribusiness for northern Australia, Tim Keith, says it is time for everyone to work together for the collective benefit of those who live and work within the MDB.

“In July this year, the Council of Australian Governments announced an agreement to establish a national manager for the Basin.

"Despite a deadline of November 1, only New South Wales has so far passed the legislation needed for this to happen.

“Every day there’s a delay, communities, irrigators and farming families suffer - not just economic losses, but in terms of their health and emotional well-being.

“NAB Agribusiness is a strong supporter of agribusiness in the MDB and wants to continue to back enterprises that are producing valuable food and fibre, improving water efficiency and contributing to local communities.

“The future of agribusiness within the MDB is of significance to everyone.

"Only with collaboration right here, right now, by all those involved will a resolution be reached,” Mr Keith said.

Its significant interest in the situation and investment in the region is one of the reasons the National Australia Bank (NAB) has thrown its support behind a forum being run by CEDA today (November 5) in Sydney.

At the event, Dr James Horne, the deputy secretary of the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts; and Mark Duffy, the director-general of the NSW Department of Water and Energy will outline government initiatives aimed at ensuring a sustainable water supply and discuss ongoing projects striving to guarantee a long-term and viable secure water reserve.

Dr Wendy Craik, chief executive of the Murray-Darling Basin Commission, will also present an update on the situation of Australia's largest and most important river system.

The Water Series of seminars is also supported by Maunsell, one of the fastest growing engineering consulting firms in the Asia-Pacific region.

For more details about the series, check NSW in the Events section of the CEDA website: ceda.com.au