Labor implements water buyback plan; critics cite property rights concerns in NSW

Labor is implementing a water buyback plan, with Michael McCormack serving as Shadow Minister for Water. Reports indicate that water owned by the Commonwealth is being released onto private land in New South Wales without permission or compensation, leading to property takeovers and potential forced flooding of land. As of June 30, 2026, Labor had recovered 380.7 gigalitres of water.

The plan is being scrutinized by the Senate Estimates, with critics arguing it takes away property rights without compensation. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water stated it was operating within the rules, despite acknowledging a potential risk that private landholders might have their land inundated by the delivered water.