The Murray-Darling Basin Plan has hit a serious snag. 

The $13 billion Murray-Darling Basin Plan is at a roadblock, with the Basin Authority warning that full implementation will not be possible by the original deadline. 

Federal Water Minister Tanya Plibersek has acknowledged the need for more time to achieve the plan's intended outcomes.

The Basin Authority's assessment highlighted several areas of concern, including a projected shortfall of 190 to 315 gigalitres in water recovery and slow progress towards the 450 gigalitres per year efficiency target. 

Additionally, critical measures for the Northern Basin are behind schedule, delaying environmental improvements.

Ms Plibersek has emphasised the government's commitment to the plan, which aims to restore rivers, floodplains, and ecosystems while considering socio-economic factors. 

However, she warned that extensions would not be open-ended, urging basin state governments to prioritise timely delivery.

The Basin Plan, initiated ten years ago, sought to secure a healthy future for the region. Still, the changing climate and complex legislative priorities have proven challenging to meet the original 2024 deadline.

The federal government is now set to collaborate with basin states to establish new timelines for projects, ensuring the plan's successful completion.