A Private Members Bill put forward by Member for Murray Helen Dalton was passed into law last night (Tuesday).

Ms Dalton says the The Water Management Amendment (Water Access License Register Reform) Bill 2024 will stop money-laundering and end the secret buying up of Australian water by overseas buyers.

“The water register that this Bill creates will mean that we will now finally know who is buying and selling water in New South Wales,” Helen said

“For too long, it’s been too easy for criminals to launder the proceeds of crime by buying and selling water that should be used for farming,” Helen said.

“And at the same time, we have had anonymous foreign buyers purchasing NSW water for reason they are not required to explain."

Ms Dalton thanked the Water Minister, Rose Jackson, for helping turn this Private Members Bill into law.

“I note in her speech Rose called me “tenacious" and “determined. I think that may be a polite way of saying I can be in a pain in the you know what when I’m fighting for things I think are important.”

“Rose may have a point. But ultimately, I will always do whatever it takes to get proper water reform for our State.”