Navigating complex approvals for cross-border irrigation infrastructure
Torrumbarry Estate, located near the Victorian side of the Murray River, engaged Rich River Irrigation Developments (RRID) to assist in upgrading a key component of its on-farm irrigation system—a river pump used for drawing water from the Murray River. While the technical requirements of the project were relatively straightforward, the geographic and regulatory complexities involved made this a highly specialised and multi-layered undertaking.
Navigating Complex Approvals Across State Borders
The proposed route for the new supply pipeline introduced significant challenges. To complete the upgrade, the pipeline needed to pass through a diverse range of land classifications, including:
- Privately owned neighbouring properties
- Environmental conservation zones
- A national park
- Creek systems
- A major state highway
This corridor spanned both Victoria and New South Wales, triggering a web of statutory approval processes. In total, we worked across 14 separate regulatory bodies across the two states.
RRID led the approval and compliance effort end-to-end, including:
- Managing and securing permits across two jurisdictions
- Drafting planning and environmental impact assessments
- Preparing and lodging formal statements and applications
- Liaising directly with councils, water authorities, and government departments
- Overseeing the alteration of an existing easement and establishment of a new easement corridor
Delivering a Successful Outcome
Despite the extensive paperwork, cross-agency negotiation, and project complexity, RRID was able to ensure that all legislative and environmental obligations were met without unnecessary delays to the estate. Our proactive coordination with authorities and clear communication with the Torrumbarry team meant the upgrade was delivered with minimal disruption, setting the estate up for improved water efficiency and long-term farm productivity.
This project demonstrates RRID’s capability not only in on-ground irrigation design, but also in regulatory navigation, infrastructure planning, and project management for clients with high-stakes or multi-jurisdictional land use needs.
