The Liberal and Nationals Government is backing a business case into new water infrastructure near Collie in southwest Western Australia to help deliver local agricultural producers and industries the quality, reliable water they need to grow and prosper.
Through our $800,000 investment, the business case will investigate a series of local water solutions, including an expansion of the existing Binningup desalination plant, construction of a new 20-gigalitre-capacity Wellington Dam desalination plant, and establishing a new irrigation scheme.
It will also explore other options including the use of drainage water, replacing open channel systems with pipeline to recover 15 gigalitres of water, extending existing water networks, establishing managed aquifer recharge and better use of existing storages.
If built, the project would include water supply to the proposed Myalup Primary Industries Reserve, including a proposed 500-hectare horticultural zone, and could support around 450 jobs.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project would improve water quality and access for agricultural and industrial customers to support long-term growth in southwest Western Australia.
"We are getting on with the job of supporting the delivery of the infrastructure that Western Australians need and deserve, whether that's water, roads or rail," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"Our Government's investment will kick-start the detailed planning work needed to help identify the right water infrastructure in the right place for further investment in this region.
"Securing more, quality water supplies for farmers and producers means more jobs, more cash flow, more business growth, and more prosperous regional communities into the future."
Western Australian Minister for Regional Development, Agriculture and Food Alannah MacTiernan said drilling down on new local water supply options was critical to the long-term security of horticulture in the South West.
"Water security is a growing issue across the south west of WA as conditions become hotter and dryer, creating challenges for our food producers," Minister MacTiernan said.
"The McGowan Government is delivering practical solutions for our growers, and this funding will allow us to investigate the best opportunities to support sustainable production and build resilience."
The Australian Government is committed to supporting the development and construction of valuable water infrastructure projects in Western Australia according to the Federal Member for Forrest and Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories, Nola Marino.
"Irrigation systems are critical assets in our South West. This work will build on previous projects like piping the Harvey and Waroona Irrigation Districts," Minister Marino said.
"The business case is about practical and sustainable growth for our agricultural, horticultural and industrial sectors through secure access to water and irrigation infrastructure," She said.
This project further demonstrates how the Australian Government is investing in the water infrastructure Australians need through the $3.5 billion National Water Grid Fund.
