The project is funded by the Australian Government ($5 million). Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund.
The business case will explore opportunities for a pipeline to supply agricultural, industry, and community water users in the Bowen region of northeast Queensland.
Project overview
The project will complete a detailed business case to assess the merits of the proposed Bowen Pipeline project. The pipeline would be capable of transferring 100 gigalitres (GL) of water each year from the Burdekin River. It would supply agricultural, industry, and community water users in the Bowen region.
The proposed project would enhance water security for communities and businesses. It would also support the expansion of existing agricultural operations by enabling irrigation of up to 40,000 hectares of additional land.
The preliminary business case includes:
- a demand and supply assessment
- an economic, financial, and risk analysis
- environmental approvals
- a legal and regulatory assessment
- construction readiness activities.
If built, the project is expected to support up to 205 construction jobs. It would also increase horticultural production in the region by up to $300 million each year.
The business case is expected to be complete in late 2024.
Learn more
- Read more about planning new water infrastructure for Central Queensland.
- Find out more about water in Australia.
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