The report The mental health benefits of waterways, published by the MDBA’s Murray–Darling Water & Environment Research program, explores the relationship between people, waterways, and mental well-being in the Murray–Darling Basin. It is the first study to examine mental health in relation to freshwater ecosystems within the context of water management. The research indicates that visiting freshwater ecosystems can enhance mental health and reduce stress.  

The study also reveals that changes in freshwater availability can impact human well-being, with fluctuations between scarcity and abundance becoming more common due to climate change. These findings have significant social and economic implications, demonstrating a proof-of-concept estimate for the economic benefits of waterways in the Murray–Darling Basin, particularly regarding improved mental health.  

Read the full paper here.