Nyngan to Cobar pipeline project

About the project

The department’s Water Group has developed a final business case for a proposed pipeline and pump stations between Nyngan and Cobar.

The project aims to upgrade the existing pipeline and pumping infrastructure to provide long-term water supply reliability for the region.

The business case involves a range of technical, environmental, cultural heritage and economic studies as well as comprehensive engagement with stakeholders and community members.

Why the project is needed

The existing Nyngan to Cobar pipeline and pumping stations are the main source of water supply to the township of Cobar and its surrounding industries and mines.

The existing pipeline and pumping stations are nearing the end of their design life, with the emergency backup system also at risk of failure. This presents a risk to water reliability for the township and mines in the area.

This project seeks to replace the pipeline and pump stations. A comprehensive business case supporting funding applications for the replacement will be presented to both the NSW and Australian Governments.

Project location

The Nyngan to Cobar Pipeline is located in far-Western NSW, with Cobar being the endpoint. Cobar is situated 300 km from Dubbo and 450 km from Broken Hill and has a population of approximately 4,000 people.

Project timelines

It has been identified the replacement of the current pump stations at Nyngan, Hermidale and Cobar is urgent and unavoidable and should be fast-tracked while the final business case is being considered by governments. As a result, the project is now staged so the pump stations can progress to address the immediate critical needs:

• Stage 1 – replacement of pump stations at three locations
• Stage 2 – replacement of pipeline

Funding for Stage 1 of the project totalling $45.5M has been secured with equal contributions from the Australian and NSW Governments of $22.75M. The Australian Government is contributing through the National Water Grid Fund.

This funding will allow the Water Group to progress the replacement of the pump stations, while continuing the relevant studies and investigations required to inform the final business case to replace the Nyngan to Cobar pipeline.

The project team is concurrently undertaking the relevant technical, environmental and cultural heritage investigations to progress the business case for the pipeline which is on track for the second half of 2023.

Stakeholder consultation

The Water Group is committed to building and maintaining respectful, trusted and collaborative relationships with our communities and stakeholders to ensure water infrastructure projects achieve the best possible outcomes.

We will be offering many opportunities for our communities and stakeholders, including First Nations communities, to engage with us and provide feedback as we develop the business case for the project.

To subscribe for updates and/or to provide feedback, please contact us using the details below.