David Littleproud has again called for more dams.

The Federal Government says the states have failed to match water storage with population growth over the past two decades.

Water Minister David Littleproud says that at the current rates, water storage per person in NSW, Victoria and Queensland will fall by more than 30 per cent by 2030.

“The states have been responsible for urban water since Federation and should be taking the lead. They're just not keeping up with their growing populations,” he said.

Mr Littleproud said that of the 20 dams completed in Australia since 2003, 16 are in Tasmania.

“If NSW, Queensland and Victoria don't start building dams, their water storage capacity will fall by more than 30 per cent by 2030,” he said.

He said that the National Water Grid has provided funds for water infrastructure projects, but the states are ignoring it.

“We put $1.3 billion on the table in through the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund in 2015 and have still had to drag most states kicking and screaming to build new dams,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Queensland has spent years dragging its heels getting Emu Swamp Dam near Stanthorpe approved, despite their critical water levels.

“This is not just about agriculture, it's about water security and food prices in our towns and capital cities.”