October Budget 2022-23: More than $1.1 billion toward water security

Adelaide River (NT)
27 October 2022

The Australian Government is investing in long term water security through a range of evidence-based science, planning and construction projects, with more than $1.1 billion committed in the 2022–23 Budget through the National Water Grid Fund.

A key commitment of October 2022–23 Budget is to expand the National Water Grid Investment Framework to allow funding for a broader range of projects, including essential town water supplies in regional and remote communities.

New projects: October 2022–23 Budget

Through the expanded Investment Framework, the Australian Government has committed $811 million towards four water infrastructure projects to provide safe and reliable water, while protecting cultural heritage and the environment.

  • $600 million towards the Paradise Dam Improvement project in Queensland
  • $107.5 million towards the Cairns Water Security – Stage 1 project in Queensland
  • $3.5 million towards the Mount Morgan Water Supply project in Queensland
  • $100 million towards the Pipeline to Prosperity Tranche 3 projects in Tasmania.

National Water Grid Fund projects: October 2022–23 Budget

The Australian Government has also committed $362.7 million towards six National Water Grid Fund projects that enhance water supply and support sustainable water security for communities, industry and the environment.

  • $300.6 million towards the Darwin Region Water Supply – Stage 1 in the Northern Territory
  • $7.1 million towards the Adelaide River Science project in the Northern Territory
  • $23 million towards the Nyngan to Cobar Pipeline – Stage 1 in New South Wales
  • $11.5 million towards strategic planning for improving water security in Queensland
  • $8 million in additional funding towards Big Rocks Weir in Queensland
  • $12.5 million towards groundwater improvement and water efficiency in the lower Burdekin.

The Australian Government is committed to responsible investment in water infrastructure, based on scientific evidence and business cases that stack up economically and environmentally.