Australian irrigated agriculture: Preparing for a future with less water

As the driest inhabited continent on the earth, Australia has always been water conscious and has made significant water reforms as a result. These reforms have led to Australia receiving international recognition for its actions, ranging from changing governance arrangements; restructuring institutions and water management agencies; involving the private sector; developing a new national water trading system; funding programs to address water scarcity at all scales; and significant financial investment in irrigation infrastructure to modernise its operations. Compounding implementation of these changes are the possible effects of climate change.