Senator The Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
The Hon Ann Leahy MP, Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers
Long-term water security is now a reality for four towns in the Cassowary Coast region of Far North Queensland, following the completion of a $9 million leak reduction project this year.
The program, which was finished in June 2025, was the first project to be completed in Queensland as part of the Australian Government's $211 million Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER) initiative, delivered under the National Water Grid Fund and co-funded with states and territories and some local governments.
It involved a range of sustainable upgrades to infrastructure, helping to reduce water loss in the water schemes of Innisfail, Nyleta, Tully and Cardwell.
Replacement of old and deteriorating water mains, coupled with the rollout of smart water meters means improved water reliability and the ability for Council, residents and businesses to monitor water use and identify leaks sooner.
The replacement of ageing infrastructure has resulted in greater than 25 million litres of water being saved.
The WISER initiative is supporting nine towns across Queensland, with $57.2 million being invested in projects to deliver more efficient and sustainable water across several regions.
Projects completed under the initiative must deliver sustainable water security outcomes and ensure the environment remains central during planning and delivery.
The Cassowary Coast leak reduction project has been jointly funded between the Albanese Government ($4.02 million), the Crisafulli Government ($4.02 million) and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council ($978,000).
Quotes attributable to the Federal Minister for Environment and Water Murray Watt:
"We are delivering infrastructure projects to communities who need better water security.
"The leak reduction project in Cassowary Coast is an example of all levels of government coming together for the people of Queensland.
"The project outcomes are sustainable, they're real and they're securing the critical water needed into the future for the region."
Quotes attributable to the Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers Ann Leahy:
"I welcome the completion of this necessary project which has future-proofed water for the Cassowary Coast.
"The Crisafulli Government is committed to working with all levels of government to ensure Queenslanders have access to safe, secure and reliable water now and into the future.
"Smart investments like this are essential for building resilient regional communities and reducing the risk of water disruptions during natural disasters."
Quotes attributable to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood:
"The completion marks a major milestone in Council's commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
"This project is a significant investment in the sustainability of our water supply.
"By reducing leaks and installing smart technology, we're improving reliability for our residents and saving ratepayer dollars in the long run."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Nita Green:
"This is a great project that conserves precious water, while delivering up to date infrastructure for Innisfail, Nyleta, Tully and Cardwell.
"By replacing sections of the aging pipe network, we'll stop costly leaks and improve water reliability for the community."
COMPLETED WATER MAIN UPGRADES - BY STREET
Innisfail water scheme:
- Carmel Street, Sherwood Street, Martin Street, Esplanade, Hickey Street, Heavey Street, Mary Street, Ryan Street, Clarke Lane, Railway Street, Power Street, Walnut Street, Water Street, Fitzgerald Street, Danelle Street, Mahogany Street, Velution Street, Propense Street, Leichhardt Street, Marty Street, Jubilee Bridge (new addition)
Nyleta water scheme:
- Victoria Street
Tully water scheme:
- Brannigan Street, Hyatt Street
Cardwell water scheme:
- Clift Road to Meunga Creek Bridge
Smart Water Meter Installation
- Innisfail - 100% completed
- Tully - 100% completed
