'Absence of trust' in Murray Darling plan

A high-level report into the Murray-Darling Basin water plan has unearthed fatigue and a complete absence of trust among stakeholders.

A study into water efficiency measures, carried out by Ernst and Young, has found sufficient evidence 450 gigalitres can be recovered through efficiency projects alone, with either neutral or positive impacts.

However, it has found that despite the efforts of governments, there is a lack of clarity about measures and objectives, no common language or trust, and a need for better community and industry engagement.

"To move forward there is a need to better engage with community and industry leaders, build greater trust and develop a social license," the report released on Friday said.

Ernst and Young found key planks of the basin plan - including buybacks, large off-farm infrastructure projects and environmental watering events - had significant mixed impacts to date.

Its analysis suggested it was possible to recover the desired amount of water through efficiency measures, but conceded the approach had its risks.

Chief among these risks was the ability to recover the water on time and on budget, along with participation rates, perceptions and understanding of the need for the plan, and addressing potential socio-economic harm.

Ernst and Young recommended more engagement with community and industry leaders, adopting a partnership approach to delivering the program, incentivising early adoption, and conducting extensive monitoring and evaluation.

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud is keen to work with affected states to pursue efficiency measures in coming months, with a ministerial council meeting slated for April.

"The EY study gives us a reference point for a frank, respectful and constructive discussion on efficiency measures and to get cracking on savings which can be made now without social or economic impacts," Mr Littleproud said.

"It is important we all act maturely and treat those communities most directly affected in the basin plan with the respect they deserve, the respect of certainty."

Mr Littleproud took over the water portfolio from Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce following last year's ministry reshuffle.