SA River Murray irrigators will receive a 100 per cent water allocation in 2017-18, thanks to the highest spring inflows in 23 years.
The 100pc opening allocation means SA is expected to receive its full State Entitlement Flow of 1850 gigalitres.
Last year, the state’s opening allocation was just 36pc, progressing to 100pc by August.
River Murray Minister Ian Hunter said the 100pc allocation would give water users some certainty in their decision-making for 2017-18.
“But water users should be aware that some climate models are forecasting potentially dry conditions in 2017, which could affect water availability in 2018-19,” he said.
“The state government is committed to providing water users with timely information on water allocations and private carryover to assist with water management for the year ahead.”
While in Far West NSW, because the Menindee Lakes system currently holds about 990gL, the NSW DPI expects to also offer a full allocation to all Lower Darling irrigators for the 2017-18 water year from July 1.
“This means water security for towns, domestic and stock users, and permanent plantings,” NSW DPI said.
“It also means full access to water for irrigation under high security and general security entitlements, as well as access to carryover water.
“Lower Darling inter and intra valley trade will remain open while the Menindee Lakes system remains above 480gL.
Also above this threshold, the system will continue to be managed as a shared resource in accordance with the Murray Darling Basin Agreement.”