The Federal Government has committed to implementing the National Water Grid which will function as an authority for strategic planning and water infrastructure.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, said, “We announced the National Water Grid during the 2019 election campaign and this new authority will be in place by the end of the year.
“The National Water Grid will deliver strategic planning and project management for water infrastructure across the nation.
“It will bring together the world’s best scientists, water experts and local stakeholder engagement to harvest and harness our most critical asset for future generations — ensuring that science, not politics — drives future decision making on water policy and infrastructure.”
The first order of business for the National Water Grid will be to look at how large-scale water diversion projects could be established to deliver reliable and cost effective water to farmers and regional communities.
This means building dams and weirs to shore up crucial domestic water supplies — making sure that water goes to the communities and farms in most need.
Mr McCormack said that an independent statutory authority will ensure the future of Australia’s water supply will be based on data — not on self-interest.
“We will work with industry, local and state governments and communities to ensure our support is targeted, useful and provides the incentive for regions to continue to grow and thrive.”
