FR24 Darling-Baaka Native Fish Recovery and Resilience Program

The Native Fish Recovery and Resilience Program (FR24 under the Restoring the Darling Baaka Program) is one of the NSW Government’s responses to the 2023 mass fish deaths in the Darling–Baaka at Menindee. See the Government full response (PDF, 14287.19 KB).

The program is initially focused on developing a 10-year strategic plan for native fish in the Darling–Baaka. This plan will set realistic targets and align with broader environmental and cultural outcomes. It will identify priority areas and practical interventions to restore habitats, improve water quality, and support native fish recovery.

By June 2026, the program will deliver a comprehensive plan to guide future investment in river rehabilitation. It will help prioritise key reaches, species, and habitats, and recommend practical, evidence-based actions that complement national and state-level strategies.

The program is jointly delivered by Western Local Land Services and NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Fisheries. Western Local Land Services brings regional expertise and strong community connections, while DPIRD Fisheries contributes knowledge and skills in fish ecology, habitat restoration and community collaboration in doing good for fish.

To get involved or learn more, contact:

DPIRD Fisheries - Erin Lake at Erin.Lake@dpird.nsw.gov.au or 02 4424 7458

Local Land Services - Silvana Keating at Silvana.Keating@lls.nsw.gov.au or  0427 661 264