Senator the Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
The Hon Don Punch MLA, Western Australian Water Minister
Senator Ellie Whiteaker, Senator for Western Australia
Construction is underway on a new $60 million water treatment plant in Western Australia's South West that will ensure a sustainable supply of high-quality drinking water for the growing region.
Jointly funded by the Albanese and Cook governments, the Busselton Water Supply Improvementproject will reduce pressure on coastal bores and increase supply capacity to Busselton andDunsborough by 20 per cent.
The project is the largest infrastructure project undertaken by the local water utility in decades.
Climate change and population growth has placed increased pressure on water supply in the SouthWest of Western Australia.
This project will help secure water supply for future generations.
Drilling work for the new production and monitoring bores has also commenced, with installation on track to be complete before the end the year.
The two bores are located approximately five kilometres inland and will reduce pressure on the coastal bores that have been supplying the region.
Engineering and design group Arup, which delivered the overall design of the project, has been appointed as the lead design consultants for the detailed design development phase, with Guidera O'Connor engaged as constructability advisors.
It is expected that the detailed design will take around nine months to complete.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt:
"Water is one of our most precious resources and every community deserves access to clean, safedrinking water.
"Projects like this will benefit the town for generations to come, which is why the Albanese Government is pleased to work with the Cook Government here in WA to deliver it."
Quotes attributable to Western Australian Water Minister Don Punch:
"The Busselton Water Supply Improvement project is a critical initiative that will help secure the long-term water needs of communities across the South West.
"Enhancing water security infrastructure is a top priority for the Cook Government. By partnering withthe Albanese Government on this project demonstrates our commitment to futureproofing WA's watersupply in response to climate change and declining rainfall, while also supporting local industry andeconomic diversification."
Quotes attributable to Senator for Western Australia Ellie Whiteaker:
"It's great to see construction now underway on this important project for the region.
"This project represents a major investment in the South West's future. By boosting local watersecurity, supporting jobs, and delivering the infrastructure our growing regional communities need."
