The First Step Decision, made by the Murray Darling Basin Ministerial Council in 2003, provides 500 GL of water exclusively to restore the health of the river ecosystem.

This decision was based on detailed ecological assessments and hydro-ecological modelling of the benefit of various flow scenarios to floodplain ecosystems.

Ecological Associates convened one of eight expert panels to develop and review these models. The panel considered the reach of the River Murray between Yarrawonga and the Wakool Junction. Specific recommendations were made for the timing and frequency of water provision and, importantly, for the volumes required.