Boost for Victorian water security

Shadow Minister for Water, Peter Walsh

Commonwealth funding and commitments for water security projects that will support farmers around Victoria has been welcomed by Leader of The Nationals and Victorian Coalition Water spokesman Peter Walsh.

The Federal Coalition today committed $20 million to build the South West Loddon Pipeline – a 1200km connection between the West Waranga Channel and the Wimmera Mallee Pipeline.

“As it stands, drought conditions have forced many farmers, particularly in the Wedderburn region, to cart stock and domestic water for the past three years,” Mr Walsh said.

“Delivery of this project would give more than 250 farms and 370 rural properties peace of mind on water access.”

A further $750,000 was also announced for a feasibility study for a reticulated water supply at Mitiamo.

“The Mitiamo district needs a piped water supply and this $750,000 is a healthy boost to the project,” Mr Walsh said.

“This $750,000 is on top of the $1.2 million of State funding Lisa Neville announced in May.

“Minister Neville now has a $750,000 boost to this project thanks to the Federal Coalition so she can redirect any excess State funding into the project’s eventual works.

“Food and fibre producers are the heartbeat of regional economies, and the Liberal-Nationals Coalition understands that it’s vital to continue investing in water infrastructure around Victoria.”

Other funding announced today
• $675,000 for a feasibility study into the second phase of the Macalister Irrigation District development

• $677,160 for a feasibility study into the Southern Victorian Irrigation Development project

• $180,000 to fast-track a feasibility study for a water supply project in Moonambel

• $1.7 million for the Sunraysia Modernisation Project

• $100,000 for a fast-tracked feasibility study into accessing deep groundwater for farmers in south-west coastal Victoria
• $540,000 for a recycled water grid to enable agricultural growth west of Melbourne
• $300,000 for a coldstream recycled water pipeline
• $91,500 for a cross-jurisdiction regional water plan for South East Melbourne to support intensive horticulture
• $20 million for Macalister Irrigation District Phase 1b
• $554,400 for Lindenow Valley water security

Media contact: Emma Manser 0437 225 386 emma.manser@opposition.vic.gov.au