In NSW, thirteen Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) have been established.

The CMAs are engaging regional communities in the key natural resource management issues facing their catchments. Specific functions of the CMAs include preparing catchment action plans, associated investment strategies and annual implementation plans, in consultation with local government and catchment communities. The catchment action plans build on catchment blueprints and regional vegetation management plans and have regard to other approved natural resource plans such as water sharing plans.