The Australian and Northern Territory governments have confirmed $3.4 million in funding for two water science projects designed to improve how water is planned, stored and protected across the Northern Territory.
The projects focus on strengthening scientific understanding of groundwater systems in Katherine and Mparntwe (Alice Springs), supporting evidence-based decision-making around water security, land use planning and future development.
Both initiatives reflect the importance of location-specific water science in a region where climate variability, population growth, and environmental pressures are placing increasing demands on groundwater resources.
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Trialling managed aquifer recharge in Katherine
In the Katherine region, a managed aquifer recharge scheme will undertake initial research and testing to trial storing wet-season flows underground for use during drier periods.
The project will investigate capturing excess flows from the King River during the wet season and recharging them into the Katherine Tindall Limestone aquifer. The approach aims to increase available water storage while also improving water quality outcomes.
Fully funded by the Australian Government through the National Water Grid Fund, the project includes drilling and installing recharge and monitoring bores, along with testing and assessment activities to evaluate feasibility and risks.
Managed aquifer recharge is increasingly being explored in northern Australia as a way to better utilise highly variable wet-season flows and reduce reliance on surface storage.
Protecting Alice Springs water supplies
In Mparntwe (Alice Springs), a separate aquifer protection study will assess risks to the groundwater systems that supply the town’s drinking water.
The study will examine current and future pressures on existing aquifers, including those linked to population growth, land use change and environmental conditions. Its findings will inform decisions about where and how future development can occur while minimising risks to water quality.
Outcomes from the study will directly inform the Northern Territory Planning Commission’s South of the Gap subregional Land Use Plan, embedding water science into statutory planning processes.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government through the National Water Grid Fund and the Northern Territory Government.
Evidence-based investment and collaboration
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the projects reflect a commitment to using science to guide water management decisions.
“We are investing in projects that will ensure we make the best decisions possible when it comes to managing and planning for our water,” Watt said. “These projects will help inform a way forward, based on evidence and responsible investment, and our unwavering commitment to sustainable outcomes.”
Northern Territory Minister for Water Resources Joshua Burgoyne said co-investment supports long-term responsible management.
“Thanks to co-investment with the National Water Grid, the NT Government can continue significant investments in science, which underpins all decisions on water management and allocation in the Territory,” Burgoyne said.