The arrangements for a single Authority came into effect on 15 December 2008. At this time the powers and functions of the Murray-Darling Basin Commission were transferred to a new, independent body called the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA). A new Ministerial Council and Basin Officials Committee were also established.

The Authority is an expert, independent body accountable to the Commonwealth Minister, comprised of a chairperson and four members. The Authority has the autonomy to prepare, implement and enforce the first ever, basin-wide water resource management plan.

Visit the MDBA website for more information.