Improving water quality across regional NSW
For the first time, ten inland regional communities will benefit from a new $1.5 million NSW Government funding program aimed at boosting drinking water quality.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Advanced Operational Support Program has provided $150,000 to each of the following Local Councils to improve the safety and reliability of town water supplies including:
- Hay Shire Council – Hay
- Hilltops Council - Boorowa
- Central Darling Shire Council – Ivanhoe
- Murrumbidgee Council – Jerilderie
- Coonamble Shire Council – Coonamble
- Glen Innes Severn Council – Glen Innes
- Balranald Shire Council – Balranald
- Mid-Western Shire Council – Rylstone
- Cabonne Shire Council – Molong
- Moree Shire Council – Boggabilla
The investment will fund upgrades to water treatment plants to improve performance, ensuring existing infrastructure is in a stronger position to respond to a range of water quality issues.
All upgrades will be completed before the end of 2024.
The program also includes DCCEEW technical experts providing on-the-ground intensive support and training for local water operators whenever they need it.
The program is part of the $32.8 million Town Water Risk Reduction Program that is working in partnership with Local Councils and Local Water Utilities to address issues such as water quality, dam safety and training for water and sewerage operators.
Quotes attributable to NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson:
“Regional and remote communities know better than anyone else how critical it is to safeguard the quality of our water, particularly in the face of a changing climate.
“It is why I am rolling out this new funding program to target towns where water quality has been an ongoing issue, so Local Councils can take proactive steps to optimise the performance of their water treatment plants.
“Investing in minor upgrades to existing infrastructure will enable them to respond to water quality issues faster and more effectively.
“The Advanced Operational Support Program also provides valuable on-the-ground training and technical assistance, at no cost to councils, to help operators tackle water challenges.
“NSW Government is working hard to support towns across regional NSW so they can continue to deliver safe water to their residents 24/7.”
