Federal funding locked in for Urannah Dam

Urannah-Dam

Central Queensland, Urranah Dam,

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The Federal Government has announced it has locked in $483 million to build the Urannah Dam as part of the plan for a stronger future for the people of Central Queensland (CQ).

The 970-gigalitre dam and approximately 200-kilometre pipeline network could unlock 103-gigalitres of water, enabling local producers to develop up to 20,000 hectares of irrigated agriculture.

It could also provide a secure and affordable water supply for mining, industrial and urban use, securing the region’s water future and creating new and expanded opportunities for businesses and industries.

The project could create up to 1,200 jobs during construction and support 650 ongoing positions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Coalition Government is committed to delivering the infrastructure that brings more wealth to CQ to underpin the future of towns like Mackay, Rockhampton and Gladstone.

“Our Government understands that building and growing our nation requires industries that produce wealth, such as the mining, agriculture and farming sectors,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“It is these industries that earn the export dollars that will help make our country as strong as possible as quickly as possible. That’s why we have put $483 million in the bank to build Urannah Dam.

This transformative dam will provide a viable water source to support 30 active projects and 71 new local projects and could open up 20,000 hectares of prime agricultural land and support more than 1,800 jobs.

Today’s announcement builds on the suite of dams and water infrastructure projects the Coalition is already investing in and delivering across Queensland, including:

  • $600 million towards the restoration of Paradise Dam;
  • $183.6 million towards the Rookwood Weir;
  • $180 million towards the Hughenden Irrigation Scheme; and
  • $30 million towards the Big Rocks Weir.

The Coalition Government has so far committed $22.65 million toward the development of the Urannah Dam project. A business case is underway and is expected to be completed later this year.

View the full Media Release here

Source: Commonwealth of Australia

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