Our goal is to maximise environmental outcomes at a Basin-scale in the short, medium and long-term. We aim to do this through the efficient, effective and transparent management of Commonwealth water for the environment.
To support this work, we have approaches, frameworks and plans. These are in addition to our obligations under the Water Act 2007 and Basin Plan 2012.
CEWH Strategic Plan 2026–30
The CEWH Strategic Plan 2026–30 outlines how we will deliver our vision of Healthy rivers for healthy communities – valuing every drop. It will help us to protect and restore the resilience of Australia’s rivers and wetlands. It also outlines our strategic priorities and tasks for 2026–30, aligned with our strategic pillars:
- optimise management of Commonwealth environmental holdings
- harness science and knowledge
- grow our partnerships.
This plan will be updated, with priorities adapted or added, in response to emerging opportunities.
Communication and engagement approach 2026–30
The Communication and engagement approach 2026–30 guides the CEWH’s communication and engagement planning and implementation.
The approach aligns closely with the CEWH Strategic Plan 2026–30. It informs activities that support us in achieving our strategic objectives.
Our approach to the use, carryover and trade of water
We plan how we're going to manage water over several years. This long-term approach allows us to better plan the delivery, trade and carryover of water.
For more information, view our Approach to planning for the use, carryover and trade of Commonwealth environmental water.
Framework for determining water use
The Framework for Determining Commonwealth Environmental Water Use helps guide decisions on the use of water.
It outlines:
- our role and obligations
- the objectives and scope of water use
- how we develop and assess watering options
- how we implement and monitor watering actions.
The framework is supported by our Criteria for assessing options for Commonwealth environmental water use.
Partnerships around water use
We have partnership arrangements with other organisations around the use of water. These partnerships support the efficient and effective delivery of water.
To learn more, visit Partnership arrangements on the use of Commonwealth environmental water.
Trading framework
The Commonwealth Environmental Water Trading Framework describes the laws that govern the trade of Commonwealth water for the environment. It explains how we will behave throughout the trading process. It ensures our trading activities:
- support enhanced environmental outcomes
- consider social and economic outcomes
- consider impacts on the market, including any third-party impacts
- follow legislative requirements
- are responsible, fair, transparent and accountable
- uphold the CEWH's commitment to integrity and high ethical standards.
To learn more, visit Trade rules and legislation.
CEWH science
The Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement (MERI) Framework provides an overview of how we approach MERI activities.
To learn more, visit Science and monitoring.
Outcomes framework
The Environmental Water Outcomes Framework sets out how water for the environment benefits the Murray–Darling Basin.
The Murray–Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) developed the framework. They based it on decades of scientific research and water management practice.
CEWH Environmental Activities Framework (CEAF)
We fund environmental projects and activities that help restore and protect the Basin. These projects aim to either:
- increase our knowledge
- improve how we deliver water for the environment
- improve the outcomes achieved from water for the environment.
To learn more, visit Environmental activity partnerships.