The Queensland Government has launched its new Queensland Water Strategy. It has taken place during National Water Week, at the Local Government Association of Queensland‘s annual conference.
The strategy was developed in consultation with the water industry, stakeholders and the community. It harnesses the strong partnerships and collaborative approach the Queensland Government has with communities across Queensland. The strategy seeks to meet challenges and create future opportunities when it comes to water security.
The strategy identifies four key delivery focus areas as a response to the need to balance economic, environmental, social and cultural demand for water:
- Healthy waterways
- First Nations partnerships
- Water for regional economic prosperity
- Safe and secure water supply
It sets out how the Queensland Government will continue to build on its $5.2 billion in water infrastructure investment. The strategy will also encourage smart water management across the state.
Also in the spotlight today was the $2.6 million Urban Water Risk Assessment. It is a vital program of work being undertaken by the Queensland Government. The program aims to help remote and regional communities identify and address water and sewerage service needs.
This work builds on the significant work undertaken to date on these important projects, particularly through round 6 of Building Our Regions. Under the highly successful Building Our Regions program, $417 million has been provided to 69 local governments, towards 370 infrastructure projects. It is leveraging more than $609 million and supports an estimated 3,180 jobs during construction.
Quotes attributable to Water Minister, Glenn Butcher:
“You can always count on the Queensland Government to ensure every Queensland community has access to safe drinking water. Queenslanders can always count on the Queensland Government to do the planning necessary to meet future water security needs.”
“We are in lock-step with our Councils when it comes to delivering infrastructure that Queensland communities need.
“The Queensland Water Strategy enables us to come together to look at the longer-term issues that we need to prepare for. The strategy is our blueprint for future water planning and builds on our track record of water infrastructure delivery.
“Whether it’s the $5.2 billion invested in water infrastructure since 2015, which has created 3,400 jobs, or the important planning work underway, Queensland communities can be confident the Queensland Government will continue to deliver water security and economic growth throughout the state and sustainably manage our precious water resources well into the future.”
Related Articles:
- Become a water-wise legend this National Water Week!
- Gardening Australia stars launch Water Night 2023
- Splash fiction writing comp for National Water Week