CEO Quarterly Report

The value of water has never been clearer.

As we reflect on the 2025/26 irrigation season, one thing stands out above all else: the enduring importance of water security to Tasmania's agricultural future.

The season was our second largest on record for water deliveries, providing another powerful demonstration of the value that reliable, high-surety irrigation water brings to farming businesses, regional communities and the broader Tasmanian economy. Behind every megalitre delivered are decisions that support production, investment, jobs and long-term confidence across the State.

Looking ahead, seasonal forecasts indicate the likely return of El Niño conditions. While the exact impacts remain uncertain, these forecasts serve as an important reminder that water security cannot be taken for granted. Managing risk and ensuring reliable water supplies continue to be critical considerations for producers right across Tasmania. Tasmanian Irrigation’s extensive monitoring, strategic water harvesting and proactive operational management provide a high level of water security for customers. By anticipating climate-related risks, maximising harvesting opportunities and making timely evidence-based decisions, we continue to protect water surety and deliver reliable water supplies for Tasmania’s agricultural communities.

More broadly, Tasmanian Irrigation remains focused on maintaining and expanding the infrastructure that underpins agricultural resilience. We are also continuing our support for the important work being undertaken by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture to better quantify and demonstrate the economic, social and environmental value created through irrigation. Robust data and evidence are essential to informing future investment decisions and ensuring Tasmania continues to maximise the benefits of its water resources.

As a business, we remain strongly focused on value, risk management and long-term sustainability. This includes investing in existing schemes, progressing new opportunities where there is demonstrated customer demand, and ensuring we make the most effective use of the water resources entrusted to us. Importantly, there remains water available across a number of our schemes. For businesses looking to increase productivity, improve drought resilience or pursue new agricultural opportunities, access to reliable irrigation water may represent an important strategic advantage in the years ahead. If these opportunities exist for your farming operation, I encourage you to reach out to your local operator or our water sales team.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support and engagement. We look forward to continuing to work alongside irrigators, industry and government to help unlock the full potential of irrigation across Tasmania.

Mike Sylvester
Chief Executive Officer