The ongoing water crisis in rural NSW has ignited widespread concern and anger among local communities. Helen Dalton MP for Murray, argues that the crisis is largely a result of poor policy decisions and mismanagement by government authorities.

"Minister Rose Jackson must look out for NSW first, or resign," Dalton demands.

A key point of contention is the recent decision to allow the Commonwealth Government to purchase 450 gigalitres of water from the Murray-Darling Basin.

Ms Dalton said this decision has been heavily criticised by many in rural NSW, who believe it will exacerbate water shortages and harm local economies.

"Furthermore, the proposed government-induced flooding of rural properties has raised serious concerns about the impact on agriculture, infrastructure, and community well-being."

Dalton argues that these measures will significantly reduce the value of rural land and disrupt essential services.

Ms Dalton has shared her growing concerns.

"The most troubling thing about the water crisis facing rural NSW is that it is completely man-made. Or perhaps we should say man and woman-made. That because the devastation is being caused by the men running the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and two women, NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson and Federal Water Minister Tanya Plibersek."

In response to these growing concerns, calls for an urgent inquiry into the social and economic impacts of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan have intensified with Helen Dalton leading the call.

The Member for Murray says many believe that such an inquiry is necessary to assess the effectiveness of current water management policies and to develop more sustainable solutions.

The NSW Water Minister, Rose Jackson, is facing increasing pressure to address the water crisis from Ms Dalton and to prioritise the needs of rural communities.

"The role of Water Minister is one of the few ministerial positions where, if you get it wrong, people’s lives can be ruined immediately, and permanently. I have never experienced such levels of fear and anger amongst my constituents before. People have had concerns in the past, but this is different. Too many people believe the NSW government has abandoned them when it comes to water, and I am deeply worried about where this is going to lead."