The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($150.6 million), the Tasmanian Government ($75.3 million) and irrigators ($75.3 million). Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund.
Butchers Hill Richmond. Photo credit: Pooley Wines.
Project overview
This project will supply 37.2 gigalitres (GL) per year of highly reliable water to existing and new irrigators across the south east of Tasmania. This will enable the growth of high value horticulture, viticulture and agriculture. The project includes:
- around 160 km of new pipeline
- 4 new pump stations
- new balance tanks
- new main line pressure reducing valves.
The Greater South East Irrigation Scheme will be powered using 100% renewable energy. It will deliver a new water supply from Lake Meadowbank to three existing irrigation schemes. It will provide 18.6 GL of water during both summer and winter irrigation seasons to support high value crops including grapes, salad greens and berries.
Key project benefits
Read more
- Joint media release: Huge boost for farmers in Tasmania’s south-east
- Find out more about water in Australia
- Learn more about the National Water Grid Fund as our primary program for responsible investment in water projects