The Federal Government will invest up to $200 million to secure Townsville’s long-term water supply, including up to $195 million to fully fund Stage 2 of the Haughton Pipeline extension and $5 million to compile the project’s business case.
Over the past 18 months the Townsville Water Security Taskforce – initiated through the $250 million Townsville City Deal delivered by the Federal Government – has been examining options for delivering Townsville’s water security.
Stage 1 and Stage 2 – coupled with the recycled water, demand management, leakage and pricing reforms which the taskforce recommended be implemented by the council – will provide Townsville a long term, reliable and cost effective water supply system.
Work will commence subject to findings of the project’s business case, which is due to start immediately.
Funding committed through the City Deal for the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor’s (TEARC) development will be re-allocated to enhance opportunities for Townsville’s development, including to support Stage 2 of the Haughton Pipeline.
This builds on the $75 million already allocated from the government’s TEARC commitment to the Port of Townsville Channel Capacity Project, ensuring the Port remains globally competitive and is capable of hosting large cargo and passenger ships.
