Boost for two irrigation schemes

Two Tasmanian irrigation schemes will receive additional water as a result of funding announced by the Federal Government, and TasWater.

The Southern Highlands Irrigation Scheme will benefit from a $20.4 million investment in a new water treatment plant for Bothwell, as well as a connection to the Scheme to improve water quality and availability for the central Tasmanian community.

A $19.1 million investment in the Cambridge–Clarence Recycled Water Interconnector in southeast Tasmania will provide around 190 megalitres of recycled water per year for agriculture and preserve the health of the Pitt Water-Orielton Lagoon. 

Additionally, the $7 million Ellendale Water Supply Pipeline Project will connect Ellendale’s water supply to the Fentonbury water treatment plant to improve water quality and reliability for the central Tasmanian community; and the $8.4 million Oatlands Water Treatment Plant Replacement Project will improve water quality and reliability for the Oatlands community in central Tasmania.

“The Albanese Labor Government is delivering crucial projects to safeguard our water resources for the communities, industries and environments that rely on them – including in regional Tasmania,” Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek said.

“I’m pleased to partner with the Tasmanian Government to deliver $20 million for four projects under the WISER initiative that will leave a long-lasting legacy of water security and quality across Tasmania.”

Federal member for Franklin and Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said that the upgrades will strengthen Tasmania’s water infrastructure and improve the availability and quality of recycled water for our local irrigation area, helping local farmers.

“This crucial funding is a win for Tasmanians, for the electorate of Franklin and for the local agriculture sector.

State Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, welcomed the funding.

“The Tasmanian Government has supported major water and sewer infrastructure projects in the State, and I welcome this significant commitment by the Australian Government.

“Agriculture is at the heart of many regional Tasmanian communities, and these projects support those farming businesses as well as those Tasmanians that call these towns home.