The National Water Commission (NWC) has called on all parties in Australia to stay the course on water reform and engage constructively with the Murray-Darling Basin planning process.

The Commission said it is concerned that water reform could potentially be sidetracked by recent events including drenching rains in Australia's east and the resignation of the Chair of the Murray Darling Basin Authority.

According to National Water Commissioner, Chloe Munro 'The reality is that developing a whole-of-basin plan is a difficult and complex task - indeed it is one of the largest and most challenging water planning exercises in the world.

'However, it must be recognised that the development and implementation of a single plan that covers the entire Basin will be a huge step forward for water management in Australia and is integral to realising the full benefits of water reform.

'The Commission's view is that under the Water Act 2007 we can have a Basin Plan that delivers on Australia's agreed National Water Initiative commitments', said Ms Munro.

NWC stated that implementation of Australia's blueprint for water reform, the National Water Initiative, has since 2004 brought very real benefits to the Australian community.

It cited examples including the creation of statutory, tradeable water rights, the development of water markets and practical steps now delivering water to the environment.

NWC said 'Water trading has given Australia's irrigators much needed options, not only in difficult conditions but to manage their businesses over the long term.'

'The Commonwealth's commitment to "bridge the gap" by buying back water from willing sellers is an important step in providing Basin irrigators with greater certainty and clearer options to manage the adjustment that a new Plan will bring.'

'But it is critical that we keep focused on the road ahead,' Ms Munro said.

'The Commission urges all parties to the water reform process not to look for reasons to abandon this challenging task.

'We have already seen the benefits that reform can bring. It is critical that all parties engage constructively with the process so that ultimately a Basin Plan is implemented and there is clarity for all parties about the rules going ahead.

'Taking a constructive approach will allow governments and affected communities to focus on the crucial process of adjustment to secure key environmental assets, a productive irrigation sector and confident communities', said Ms Munro.