That is the view of Leeton shire mayor Paul Maytom, who has given his thoughts on the recent announcements from the federal government regarding the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

Minister for Water Keith Pitt recently announced new policy positions stating there will be no more water recovered from agriculture to achieve the Basin Plan and the 450GL of "up water" will be sourced from areas outside of farms.

Councillor Maytom offered cautious optimism on the news.

"We trust the government will stay true to its word, but at least our productive water is safe, for now," he said.

"Council is pleased there will be a renewed focus on complementary measures like fish ways and carp management, as well as increased regional development support for communities most negatively impacted by a decade of misaligned water reforms.

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In regard to the minister's response to the Sefton Report, which was also released last week, council welcomed Mr Pitt's decision that the government will extend existing Murray-Darling Basin development programs by a further $34 million.

This will provide additional funding for communities most disadvantaged by water recovery.

It is understood these grants will provide eligible communities with practical assistance to boost tourism and recreation and to diversify economically.

Council's general manager Jackie Kruger said the shire has several projects to promote and looked forward to the grant eligibility criteria being released.

The Sefton Report also urges that the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) Projects for recovering the 605GL "down water" should not be rushed.

Leeton shire had hoped Mr Pitt may have made an announcement on this issue, allowing more time and flexibility to deliver the SDLAM Projects.

"We remain concerned that rushing these through without appropriate due diligence is very high-risk for affected communities and for taxpayers who are expecting value for money for their hard-earned dollars," Cr Maytom said.

"It is hoped the Minister will clarify his position on the SDLAM projects sooner rather than later."

Also announced last week was the Murray-Darling Basin Authority's compliance function being moved to a separate body under an Inspector General of Water Compliance.

Council is hopeful that the new structure will be efficient and effective by collaborating closely with existing state compliance agencies instead of duplicating effort.

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"Council appreciates the importance of compliance, but wants to see results if government is going to the expense of setting up a separate agency," Cr Maytom said.

Council said it would continue to advocate for water security here in Leeton shire, as well as throughout the region as part of its role on the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation.

Earlier this year RAMJO councils united to develop a position paper on water to show government a way to provide future water security for the region.

This is the first time a major portion of the local government entities in the Basin had come together - including some differing sides of the water debate - to propose practical solutions.

That work and lobbying is continuing on a range of issues, including the water market, the impact of water prices on agricultural diversity and security, infrastructure and much more.