June 8, 2016
The Coalition is getting on with the job of delivering our water infrastructure needs, today announcing $554,400 to fast-track a feasibility study into ways to increase water storage for Gippsland’s Lindenow Valley, delivering greater water security for the region.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Barnaby Joyce today announced the funding, as part of the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.
“The Coalition is expediting the planning work required to get water infrastructure projects shovel-ready because we are serious about ensuring water infrastructure gets built as quickly as possible, to help support strong regional economies and communities,” Minister Joyce said.
“This work is a key part of the process, detailing the feasibility, economic returns and sustainability of this project, as we identify the best sites to deliver new water infrastructure.”
Mr Chester said the study will look at the best options for increasing water security and reliability to support greater agricultural productivity in the Lindenow Valley.
“The study will examine the feasibility of potential off-stream and on-farm water storage options, including construction of a suitable storage at Glenaladale. If viable, such a project could potentially create an additional 200 on farm jobs in the region,” he said.
“The Lindenow valley is home to some of Australia’s most successful vegetable, salad, beef and lamb producers. They are responsible for supplying fresh product that can be found in restaurants and supermarket shelves across our nation.
“Water security remains a top priority for primary producers in the Mitchell River flats area and this study and I have been pleased to work closely with farmers, Southern Rural Water and Minister Joyce to help secure this feasibility money.”
Minister Joyce said the Coalition was delivering on its $2.5 billion commitment to building the water infrastructure of the future.
“It’s the right time for our significant investment in water infrastructure. A transitioning economy and growing global demand for agrifood products mean this is a time of unprecedented opportunity for our agriculture sector,” he said.
“As the economy transitions and diversifies, agricultural exports are playing a more important role than ever in our nation’s economy and prosperity. Rural exports have already overtaken coal to become our second-largest export after iron ore.
“The Coalition is taking action by carrying out the most significant investment in infrastructure in Australian history, including through the roll-out of our $15 billion water reform agenda, so we can make the most of these opportunities.
“From water infrastructure, to transport infrastructure and digital infrastructure, the Coalition is laying the foundations to support a productive and profitable agriculture sector, and a strong national economy.”
CAPTION: Lindenow farmers first met with Agriculture and Water Minister Barnaby Joyce (centre) in 2014 to discuss the merits of increasing water storages for the Lindenow Valley. At the meeting with Minister Joyce and Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (right) were (from left) Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien and producers Ross Ingram, Kim Martin and Bill Bulmer. (File photo)
