The Federal Government has announced it is looking to co-fund the long-awaited Emu Swamp Dam project in Queensland. The announcement follows a raft of infrastructure projects announced around the state ahead of the 2019 Federal Election.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, and Federal Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, David Littleproud, visited Stanthorpe to meet with local farmers.
They announced the government’s interest in contributing funds towards building the Emu Swamp Dam, a project that has been discussed but left unactioned for 38 years.
Mr McCormack said that following the Federal Government’s $500 million investment through the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund, it was now looking to invest another $500 million.
The Emu Swamp Dam project is estimated at $84 million, with private farmers and developers already pledged to provide 29 per cent of the cost.
Mr McCormack said he is ready to discuss the project’s funding with Queensland Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Andrew Lynham.
The dam aims to increase security for Queensland farmers, who have previously had to truck water into the state from NSW.
The Federal Government has also put aside $3.9 billion for the Drought Future Fund to secure regional farmers’ access to water, with this fund expected to grow to $5 billion.
