Water trading in Australia: Tracing its’ development and impact over the past three decades

Abstract

This chapter describes why and how water markets have evolved in Australia. The various changes that have occurred in Australia’s water markets from their early inception to their current relative maturity are canvassed throughout. It outlines how various groups—mainly irrigators and governments—have used water markets, as well as some of the general benefits (and costs) that are associated with water markets, including environmental costs.