Funding confirmed for central Queensland water security

22 November 2023

The Australian Government has confirmed $4.5 million for a new Central Queensland Regional Water Assessment.

Rainfall is currently well below average in the Fitzroy Basin region. For a region prone to dry spells, climate change and water security are very real concerns.

The assessment will identify how to support communities and industries within and surrounding the Fitzroy Basin Water Plan area. The Plan is managed by the Queensland Government and ensures sustainable management of water in the basin. The assessment is an important step to ensure investments are made in the right way. It will allow for the best water security decisions in the face of a changing climate.  

The Central Queensland Regional Water Assessment will:

  • explore infrastructure and non-infrastructure water supply options
  • uncover the best solutions for safe and reliable water supply
  • build towards a water secure future for central Queensland
  • support the region’s communities, economic growth and industries.

The assessment will support the thousands of people who live in and around the Fitzroy Basin area and local industries. Beef cattle are a key part of the region’s economy and job creation. The assessment will support the future of this industry.

At the completion of the assessment, preferred options will be identified for further consideration, helping to create a pathway to a water-secure Queensland.

The assessment will uncover the best solutions for safe and reliable water supply in central Queensland.
The water assessment is an important step to ensure investments are made in the right way for central Queensland. Image credit: Queensland Government.

Australian Government commitment to planning across Queensland

The Central Queensland Regional Water Assessment is funded as part of the Australian Government’s $11.5 million commitment to support strategic planning work across Queensland. 

The commitment includes 2 other water assessment projects:

  • Southern and Darling Downs Regional Water Assessment
  • Burdekin Regional Water Assessment.

Other projects supported by the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund in the region include the construction of Rookwood Weir ($183.6 million) and the additional funding recently committed to ensure water security for Mount Morgan ($26.5 million).

Visit the Central Queensland Regional Water Assessment project page.