The Federal Government is introducing legislation to extend the critical Murray-Darling Basin Plan, although its passage through the Senate remains uncertain.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has expressed optimism as the bill makes its way to parliament, saying the plan offers more time, increased funding, expanded options, and enhanced accountability. 

Plibersek highlighted the need for additional time, citing limited progress over the past decade.

However, the Greens are hesitant to support the plan in its current form. 

Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has expressed concerns that the bill does not provide the necessary guarantees for South Australia and the river's health.

The Murray-Darling Basin Plan, a significant environmental initiative, seeks to restore the river system's environmental flows. It spans four states and the ACT, covering a vast area with significant economic and ecological importance.

The plan's goal is to maintain 3,200 gigalitres of water within the system, backed by a $13 billion budget. Water recovery strategies include voluntary sales of water entitlements and infrastructure improvements. The plan faces proposed amendments in Parliament this week to extend deadlines and address challenges.

The plan also includes a contentious target of acquiring 450GL of additional environmental water, which faces hurdles related to physical constraints and social and economic impacts on basin communities.

Victoria remains the only state opposing the new plan, while concerns persist about the engagement of First Nations groups in basin water management.