The NSW Government's commitment to strengthening water security and quality is evident in its strategic approach, which emphasises the elimination of inefficient projects while directing investment into essential infrastructure and water management initiatives.
Going forward, the focus is on harnessing the latest scientific advances and modern infrastructure to ensure access to safe and secure water across the state, while promoting improved environmental outcomes.
Drought preparedness:
Recognising the looming threat of drought and its potential impact on NSW's water security, the 2023-24 NSW Budget allocates more than $353 million over the next four years to support various projects aimed at improving regional drought preparedness and resilience. Key investments include:
- $222.4 million to upgrade critical water supply infrastructure in towns such as Wilcannia, Eurobodalla and Cobar in partnership with the Australian Government.
- 217.5 million for initiatives under the Safe and Secure Water Program to address urban water supply, quality and safety issues in regional areas.
- 6 million to improve water safety in Tamworth through practical solutions.
- A $5 million contribution to the Northern Rivers Watershed Initiative, which focuses on improving water security and catchment health in the Tweed, Brunswick, Richmond and Evans Rivers catchments.
- $13.6 million to improve drinking water quality by replacing critical infrastructure at the Yass Water Treatment Plant.
Murray Darling Basin Plan:
The commitment to deliver the Murray Darling Basin Plan underlines the Government's commitment to supporting river health, ensuring water access and improving water efficiency. This includes a $220 million investment in infrastructure projects to improve the overall health of the river system. These projects include the removal of barriers, installation of flow regulators, pumps, channels and fishways.
Cost of living relief:
The Budget provides $160 million per annum over four years to provide direct relief to low-income households through water rebates to alleviate the cost of living pressures associated with household water bills.
This budget represents a proactive effort to address cost of living challenges, using climate science-based solutions to mitigate the impacts of dry spells and build resilient, drought-prepared communities.