Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) is actively working with customers, environmental groups and the community to continually improve irrigation practices to ensure the ongoing viability of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA).

The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area Renewal Alliance (MIA Renewal Alliance) is an Alliance between Murrumbidgee Irrigation, GHD, UGL Infrastructure and John Holland Group. The Alliance has been set up to plan, design and deliver modernisation throughout the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA).

The water delivery system in the MIA is made up of concrete and earth lined channels that are up to 80 years old. There is extensive seepage from the channels.

The Alliance’s work will create an automated delivery system and refurbish ageing infrastructure. This will improve water access and efficiency in the MIA.

In order to find the best solution for the system we are ensuring we have close and regular engagament with customers and other stakeholders.

To date, planning and design work has started on:

• Hanwood Modernisation Project
• Lake Wyangan Modernisation Project

Funding for the work comes from two main sources. Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI), including funds from its Asset Renewal Deed which was created as part of MI’s privatisation. The Federal Government’s Private Irrigation Infrastructure Operators Program (PIIOP). MI has been successful in securing $214.50 million for on and off farm projects to date. Projects that secure funding through PIIOP must demonstrate economic and environmental benefits as well as water savings.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area