Enhancing the safety of dams and securing reliable water supplies are top priorities of the Queensland Government’s 2019-20 Natural Resources, Mines and Energy budget.
Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Dr Anthony Lynham, said more than $600 million was being invested with the focus on both renewable and non-renewable natural resources, delivering safe, secure, affordable and sustainable energy and water.
“Water security always has been a priority for the Palaszczuk Government and we will continue to ensure that is the case, at all times ensuring that Queenslanders are getting full value from our commitment to ensuring a reliable water supply,’’ Dr Lynham said.
Investment in dam safety and securing reliable water supply in the Budget includes:
- $83 million to construct the Rookwood Weir to supplement urban water supplies and enhance agricultural and industrial development in the Fitzroy Basin and Gladstone region
- $55 million as part of Queensland Government’s $225 million total investment to address Townsville’s long-term water security needs for the Haughton Pipeline
- $43.5 million for SunWater’s Dam Improvement Program to enhance dams to meet future extreme weather conditions and to continue to provide water security for regional Queensland
- $26.3 million for Gladstone and Mt Isa Water Boards to continue to provide a reliable water supply
“Seqwater has budgeted a record $153.6 million in capital expenditure for 2019-20, focusing on the continuation of a safe, secure and reliable water supply for South East Queensland, as well as providing essential flood mitigation services and managing catchment health,” Dr Lynham said.
