Funding confirmed to boost irrigation for south east Tasmania

21 November 2024

The Australian Government has confirmed $150.6 million as part of the jointly funded Greater South East Irrigation Scheme project.

Together with the Tasmanian Government, the $301.1 million project will enable 37.2 gigalitres (GL) of highly reliable water to be used for irrigation purposes.

New and existing irrigators will use the water to support local agriculture including grapes, salad greens and berries. Benefits to local growers will have a flow on effect to the Tasmanian economy.

Powered by 100% renewable energy the project will deliver:

  • approximately 160km of new pipeline
  • 4 new pump stations to move water from Lake Meadowbank through a network of new and existing pipelines to deliver water to the broader south east area
  • new balance tanks to support water flow through the expanded scheme
  • new main line pressure reducing valves to support water saving.

The project will provide water supply from Lake Meadowbank and connect the 3 existing South East Irrigation Schemes.

By providing 18.6 GL of water each summer and winter, irrigators can look forward to reliable water during critical growing seasons.

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