Current integrated catchment management policy and management settings in the Murray–Darling Basin

This chapter reviews the different integrated catchment management (ICM) practices in each of the Australian states. Then, combining the lessons from this review with those obtained from a review of three international river management bodies (Mekong River, Danube River, Frazer River), a set of principles for successful ICM and a framework for achieving these principles is developed. The ICM framework incorporates elements of planning, implementation, assessment, monitoring, and review in planning on-ground actions. Adoption of the ICM framework approach and principles discussed at a state (or national) level should provide the basis for the development of goals for programmes for the management of water, land, and vegetation and still allow for the integration of these programmes at local and regional scales. It is also highly desirable that ICM bodies be underpinned with statutory powers, have a secure revenue base, be connected (and accountable) to communities of interest, and have a degree of flexibility to implement integrated programmes based on proper planning processes.