Construction has begun on the Mininera Rural Pipeline Project, marking the next stage in expanding reliable rural water supply across drought-affected areas of western Victoria.
The project extends the East Grampians Rural Pipeline and will deliver piped water to Mininera and surrounding districts, reducing reliance on rainfall-dependent dams and strengthening long-term water security for farming communities.
More than 80 kilometres of new mains pipeline will be installed to service 199 rural properties, providing year-round access to a high-quality water supply sourced from Lake Fyans.
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Why the Mininera Rural Pipeline matters for drought resilience
Extended dry conditions and climate variability have placed increasing pressure on traditional on-farm water sources across western Victoria.
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water said changing rainfall patterns and farming practices have made local catchment dams an unreliable source of supply for many landholders.
By providing a secure piped supply, the Mininera extension reduces exposure to seasonal variability and allows farmers to plan with greater confidence during drought and heatwave conditions.
How the project supports agriculture and regional growth
Reliable water access underpins farm productivity, biosecurity and long-term investment decisions.
The Mininera pipeline is expected to support existing agricultural enterprises to expand and adapt, knowing they have consistent access to water regardless of rainfall conditions.
Minister for Water Gayle Tierney said the project delivers generational benefits for the region.
“This investment will transform water security for Mininera and the surrounding communities,” Minister Tierney said.
“We’re strengthening drought resilience and creating real opportunities for agricultural growth for generations to come.”
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said secure water access is critical for business confidence.
“Reliable water access is vital for our farmers and the growth of their businesses,” Haylett said.
“This pipeline will give them peace of mind knowing their water supply is secure all year round.”
Strengthening bushfire preparedness and emergency response
In addition to agricultural benefits, the Mininera Rural Pipeline Project enhances regional fire preparedness.
The extension includes the installation of 10 firefighting hydrants and seven firefighting tanks, adding to the existing network delivered through earlier stages of the East Grampians pipeline.
These assets improve access to water for firefighting during bushfire events, reducing response times and supporting safer outcomes for communities and emergency services.
Building on progress from the East Grampians Rural Pipeline
The Mininera extension builds on significant progress already achieved under the East Grampians Rural Pipeline Project.
To date, more than 500 kilometres of pipeline have been installed across the region, with 372 water meters connected at rural properties.
The earlier works have also delivered 18 CFA fire hydrants and 11 CFA fire tanks, improving emergency water access across a wide footprint.
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water said the pipeline program reflects a commitment to long-term water solutions.
“Climate variability and changed farming practices have made local catchment dams unreliable as a source of water supply,” the utility said.
“We are committed to delivering water solutions that allow our communities to thrive.”
Funding and delivery
The Mininera Rural Pipeline Project is supported by $15 million from the Victorian Government’s Drought Support Package, alongside $15.6 million from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water.
Construction is being delivered by Mitchell Water, which is also responsible for installing the East Grampians Rural Pipeline infrastructure.
The Victorian Government said it continues to advocate for matched Commonwealth funding to support delivery of the project’s full scope.