- Applications now open for a share in 18,250 ML of unallocated water in the Barron water plan area.
- The additional water will support agriculture and local industries to expand, diversify and grow.
- Release follows the Crisafulli Government's Unlocking Water Project review and recent expressions of interest to access more water.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering for farmers and industries in the Barron region, unlocking 18,250 megalitres (ML) of unallocated water to support local agribusiness and industries with the water they need to grow.
Under Labor's decade of decline, poor planning and long delays left our regions without the water required to support growth when it mattered.
The Crisafulli Government is unlocking underutilised water across Queensland through our Watertight Water Security Plan.
Applications are now open in response to the Crisafulli Government's Unlocking Water Project recommendations and continued demand to access unallocated water in the Barron water plan area.
This release will help drive local economic growth and create jobs in agriculture and other industries, helping farmers and businesses expand, diversify and pursue new opportunities.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the unlocked water would create new opportunities for farmers, businesses and communities across the Barron region.
"Our government is committed to improving access to water to support regional growth, while ensuring it is managed sustainably," Minister Leahy said.
"We're giving landholders and local industries the confidence to invest, expand and create jobs by making 18,250 ML of additional water available.
"This is about unlocking the full potential of the Barron and delivering the water security regional communities need to grow, thrive and plan for the future."
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said unlocking water was critical to supporting farmers and industries across the region.
"Water security is the foundation of agriculture, and unlocking 18,000 megalitres in this plan area gives local growers and businesses the certainty they need to invest, expand and plan for the future," Minister Perrett said.
"For too long, water was tied up in red tape instead of supporting regional jobs and productivity, and this release shows the Crisafulli Government is backing our primary producers with real action."
Member for Cook David Kempton said unlocking more than 18,000 ML of water was a major win for local farmers, growers and industries across Far North Queensland.
"By making more water available around the Barron region, the Crisafulli Government is backing our local producers to expand, diversify and keep our regional economy moving," Mr Kempton said.
Applications for unallocated water can be made before 5pm Monday 10 August 2026.
To apply, visit the Business Queensland website: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/water/catchments-planning/unallocated-water/apply .
