The Australian Government, in partnership with the Northern Territory Government, is investing $34.3 million to enhance water security and infrastructure across 10 remote NT communities.
The Better Bores for Communities program will improve water supply and quality and support growth and development by providing greater certainty of water availability in seven communities and expanding water supply in three others.
“Every Australian should be able to drink water from the tap, no matter where they live,” Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said. “That’s why we’re investing in projects to deliver critical water infrastructure projects in First Nations remote communities, ensuring they can remain living on Country. We’re working with state and territory partners, First Nations organisations, and representatives to Close the Gap on water security.”
The Australian Government is contributing $27.8 million through its National Water Grid Fund, with the Northern Territory Government providing an additional $6.5 million.
“Too many First Nations communities in the Northern Territory don’t have access to clean and reliable water,” Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said. “This funding demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to improving life outcomes for First Nations people. The Australian Government will continue working closely with our state and territory partners, First Nations organisations, and representatives nationwide to identify, plan and deliver future water security projects.”
The program will conduct water source investigations and bore drilling in Robinson River, Warruwi, Yuelamu, Titjikala, Finke, Atitjere and Gapuwiyak communities.
“This project is about more than just water supply. It’s about improving liveability, promoting economic opportunities, and supporting sustainable growth in these communities,” Northern Territory Minister for Water Resources Joshua Burgoyne said. “Reliable water access is fundamental to reducing overcrowding, improving health outcomes, and driving positive social change. To improve the quality of life for Territorians in these communities, we need to improve water access and quality. We’re working closely with the Central Land Council, Northern Land Council, and the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (AAPA) to ensure these projects have the support of local communities.”
It will also install essential equipment to connect new water sources in the Wugularr, Haasts Bluff and Ntaria (Hermannsburg) communities.
Power and Water Corporation will lead the work, which begins with water source exploration in early 2025. All work is expected to be completed by 2027.
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