Former NSW Nationals leader Troy Grant will police water use in the Murray-Darling Basin with the federal coalition appointing him the next interim inspector-general.
Mr Grant served as deputy premier and held the justice, police, emergency services and natural resources portfolios during his political career.
Water Minister and Nationals MP Keith Pitt said Mr Grant's 22 years in the police force would bring vital experience to the role.
"This extensive experience and Mr Grant's unique leadership attributes make him an ideal fit for this important role so he can hit the ground running as a strong voice on critical Murray-Darling Basin water matters," he said.
Mr Grant will replace former Australian Federal Police commissioner Mick Keelty who has served in the job since October last year.
Mr Pitt said he wanted the interim inspector-general to work closely with communities on compliance with water rules.
The inspector-general is still without substantive compliance powers, with the federal government yet to make the role official through legislation.
Some basin states have bristled over the job, raising concerns about the proposed investigative powers.
