Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder Commission of Inquiry Bill 2026

# Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder Commission of Inquiry Bill 2026 ## What it does A Senator is proposing to set up a formal inquiry to investigate how the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (the federal body that manages water for the environment) is actually performing its job. The inquiry would examine its behaviour, practices and decision-making, and report findings back to Parliament. ## Why it matters Australia's water is scarce and contentious — environmental water flows affect farmers, communities and ecosystems across the country. If the body managing this water isn't operating fairly or effectively, it impacts real people and the environment. This inquiry could uncover problems and lead to better accountability. ## Key details - **Who runs it**: The bill allows for the appointment of commissioners to lead the inquiry, with power to hold public hearings and compel witnesses to attend and answer questions - **What they can do**: The Commission can demand documents, conduct searches with warrants, and call anyone — from government officials to water users — to give evidence under oath - **Serious penalties**: Witnesses who refuse to show up, lie under oath, destroy relevant documents, or intimidate other witnesses face criminal charges (contempt of the Commission), with jail time possible for the most serious breaches