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Department of Climate Change, Energy, Enviroment and Water

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Sidebar first - CEWH - How we manage water

  • How we manage water
    • Water for the environment
      • Benefits
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        • Community efforts to support Murray hardyhead
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        • Water for the environment and on-farm wetlands
      • Seasonal Issues
        • About wetlands
        • Blue-green algae
        • Carp and water for the environment
        • Freshwater mussels in the Murray–Darling Basin
        • The impacts of low-oxygen water
        • Responding to the impacts of climate change
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Seasonal issues

Last updated: 05 February 2026

We face a number of challenges when it comes to managing Commonwealth water for the environment.

Some of these challenges are reoccurring. They can be linked to seasonal changes or natural climate events like El Niño and La Niña.

About wetlands

Wetlands are a crucial part of the natural environment creating habitats for native plants and animals.

Blue-green algae

Blue-green algae can be toxic in greater numbers.

The impacts of low-oxygen water

Low oxygen levels in water can threaten native fish and other aquatic life.

Carp and water for the environment

Carp are an invasive, widespread fish species found in the Murray–Darling Basin that can harm native fish and plants.

Freshwater mussels in the Murray–Darling Basin

Freshwater mussels are important for a healthy river system but are vulnerable to extreme drought and hot summers.

Waterbird breeding in the Murray–Darling Basin

We deliver water for the environment where and when waterbirds need it most to support waterbird breeding and survival.

Responding to the impacts of climate change

Climate change is reshaping water availability in the Murray–Darling Basin.

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Last updated: 05 February 2026
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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Murray–Darling Basin and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise their intrinsic cultural, social, environmental, spiritual and economic connection to the rivers, wetlands and floodplains of the Basin.

Find out more about our First Nations engagement and partnerships work.

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