Secure, reliable and cost-effective water supply is a step closer to supporting economic development in the Darwin region, with the Adelaide River Off-Stream Water Storage (AROWS) preliminary assessment now complete.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the preliminary assessment has identified options to be considered in a detailed business case.
"The business case – now underway and scheduled for completion in late 2021 – will provide the detailed information we need to allow us to make potential water infrastructure investments in the region," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"It will assess the potential for AROWS and other storage options to provide secure, reliable and cost-effective water to meet future water demand.
"The business case will also thoroughly investigate the market demand and infrastructure needs for the project to best support economic development in the Darwin region."
Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure Planning and Logistics and Water Security Eva Lawler said projects such as AROWS play an important role in increasing water security for the Darwin region.
"We are pleased to be working with the Australian Government to investigate the feasibility of possible water infrastructure projects that support our regions now and into the future," Minister Lawler said.
"The Territory Government has been keeping up the momentum to accelerate preparatory works for the AROWS project such as planning, site investigation and environmental studies."
Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the Australian Government's $2 million investment for the AROWS business case forms part of its nationwide commitment for water infrastructure projects.
"The Country Liberal Party, as part of the Liberal and Nationals Coalition, understands projects such as AROWS will drive economic development in the NT and create badly needed jobs for the Top End," Senator McMahon said.
"This funding will help increase water security in areas where extensive irrigated agriculture already exists, while also helping unlock new agricultural regions, especially here in Australia's North.
"AROWS will help to drive the Australian Government's aim to boost agriculture from its current $65 billion industry to $100 billion by 2030."
