The deal signed by the majority of Australia state and central governments is about

The majority of Australia state and central governments have signed a deal to safeguard the country’s water resources. A multi-million dollar scheme to revive one of its most important river basins has also been approved.
    Australia is the world’s driest continent. There’s general agreement that the country has to use water more efficiently. In many parts supplies are in crisis.
    At the heart of the initiative is a 350-million-dollar scheme to revitalize the Murray Darling river basin. It’s one of the most important water courses in the country and stretches across four states in south-eastern Australia. In recent times, it’s been badly affected by excessive irrigation and a lack of rain.
    There was a concern, however, that projects to help revive other struggling rivers will not be funded. A special commission is to be set up and will help develop the trade in water between the states and territories.
    Domestic consumers could soon face permanent restrictions, such as the perilous state of supplies in many parts of the country. Whilst there was broad agreement in Canberra, the Premier of Western Australia, Geoff Gallop, refused to sign the deal, insisting it did nothing to address the problems his region faces.