A major upgrade to Gilgandra’s wastewater infrastructure is now underway thanks to a $6.8 million funding boost from the Minns Labor Government to build a new state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant.
The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering the critical infrastructure and essential services communities need to grow and thrive for decades to come.
The extra funding brings the NSW Government’s total investment to $25.6 million under the Safe and Secure Water Program, alongside a further $2.8 million from Gilgandra Shire Council.
The project will replace the town’s existing 60-year-old sewerage treatment plant that has reached the end of its operation life, with a modern and widely used treatment system known as Intermittent Decanted Extended Aeration (IDEA).
As part of the upgrade, two pump stations and associated pipelines will also be improved, boosting reliability, reducing maintenance and delivering a more efficient wastewater network for the community.
Once complete, the new plant will treat almost 20 per cent more wastewater each day. The facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2027.
The NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Water Program is investing up to $1 billion in water infrastructure projects across the state, with more than 260 projects are currently in various stages of delivery.
Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:
“This additional funding was essential to getting shovels in the ground and is an important investment in the long-term sustainability of Gilgandra’s wastewater infrastructure.
“The existing treatment plant has served the community for decades, but this new facility will provide a modern, reliable wastewater system that can support Gilgandra for years to come.
“It’s fantastic to see construction underway on building a state-of-the-art wastewater system that will give residents the service and reliability they deserve.”
Duty MLC for Barwon Stephen Lawrence said:
“It’s fantastic to be here in Gilgandra to turn the sod on this critical infrastructure project that will serve the community for decades to come.
“The Minns Labor Government recognises that modern wastewater infrastructure is essential for regional communities, which is why we’ve invested an additional $6.8 million to get this project moving.”
Mayor of Gilgandra Shire Council, Doug Batten said:
“The new sewage treatment plant will make a real difference for Gilgandra as our population grows and demand for a reliable and efficient wastewater system increases.
“The reality is our existing plant is more than 60 years old and treatment technology has a come a long way. This new infrastructure will ensure our town has safe and more secure infrastructure needed to support us for decades to come.
“We’re thankful for the additional funding from the NSW Government to help keep this project on track so we can deliver this important upgrade for our community.”
