- Crisafulli Government delivering on key election commitment by granting a new 500 ML water licence to Longreach Regional Council.
- Additional water will increase water supply for Longreach community.
- Supports the construction of new raised weir infrastructure on Thomson River expected to begin in 2026.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start and a plan for Queensland's future.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment by granting a new 500 ML (megalitre) water licence to Longreach Regional Council.
This is a critical step forward in delivering a stronger, more reliable water supply for the community and backing the future of the region.
It's just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future, backing regional communities and building long-term water security after a decade of decline under Labor.
The new licence ensures council will be ready to make use of five upgraded weirs on the Thomson River, boosting water storage and supply ahead of construction starting later this year.
Backed by a $7 million investment, the Crisafulli Government is delivering real results for regional Queensland by supporting these upgrades, replacing ageing water mains and rolling out smart water metres across the network.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the Crisafulli Government was committed to future-proofing water security for the people of Longreach.
"Backing water security in the regions is critical to supporting strong, sustainable communities, and this licence is a key step in making that happen," Minister Leahy said.
"We're not just investing in infrastructure, we're making sure councils have the approvals in place to maximise that investment and deliver reliable water where it's needed most.
"This is about delivering on our key election commitment to ensure communities like Longreach have the water security they deserve now and into the future."
Assistant Minister and Member for Gregory Sean Dillion said the new 500 megalitre water licence would deliver long-term benefits for the Longreach community.
"This is great news for our Longreach community who know just how important reliable water supply is out here," Mr Dillon said
"In the west, water security isn't a luxury, it's essential to everyday life, and this is about making sure families, businesses and future generations have that certainty.
"Securing this additional water means we're strengthening supply, supporting growth and giving locals confidence in their future water security."
Longreach Regional Council Mayor Tony Rayner said that the licence was a critical step forward in delivering the new water infrastructure.
"It's fantastic to see the continued focus from all levels of government in supporting the delivery of this important water security project for our Longreach community," Mayor Rayner said.
"With construction works for the weirs expected to get underway later this year, having the necessary approvals in place ensures we're ready to store and supply the extra water to residents once the project is complete.
"This is an exciting milestone for Longreach, and we're looking forward to seeing the positives benefits flow to our community."
