The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($48.1 million), the Victorian Government ($65.6 million) and other partners ($2.6 million). Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund.
The project will provide increased water supply and will support productivity and diversification into alternative higher value crops.
Project overview
The project will construct a pipeline network connecting existing recycled water plants at Sunbury, Melton and Bacchus Marsh to the irrigation districts west of Melbourne. Construction includes over 50 km of pipeline and construction of 2.1 gigalitre water storage and pump stations.
This pipeline network will create the new Parwan/Balliang Irrigation Scheme and will provide a safe and secure supply of irrigation water to farmers. This increased water supply will support productivity and diversification into alternative higher value crops.
The network will support the delivery of recycled water into the future as urban growth in and around Melbourne’s west will mean an increase in available recycled water over the coming decades.
Construction is expected for completion in mid-2025.
Key project benefits
Learn more
- Learn more about the National Water Grid Fund as our primary program for responsible investment in water projects.
- Find out how we work with leading national science institutions through the NWGA Science Program.