Applications are now open for water sales for the updated and redesigned Tamar Irrigation Scheme.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jo Palmer, said the Government has updated the scheme to ensure it aligns better with demand in the region, following last year’s launch.
The Government is re-presenting this opportunity to Tamar land-owners after the first sales process did not meet the threshold to proceed, if farmers want the scheme to go ahead now is the time to jump on board.
“Tasmania’s kanamaluka/Tamar River region is synonymous with production of high-value agricultural crops,” Minister Palmer said.
“This redesigned scheme will provide access to 13,500 megalitres of high-reliability irrigation water, each summer and winter irrigation season.
“The new scheme will give farmers the confidence and ability to grow and develop their farming operations.”
“There are significant benefits generated from land when irrigation water is available. Even if farmers are already undertaking irrigation on their properties, they are asked to consider not just what water is needed today, but how much might be needed in the future to grow the success and prosperity of farming businesses.”
Construction of the Tamar Irrigation Scheme is a priority for the Rockliff Liberal Government and will assist in the goal to grow the farmgate value of Tasmania’s agricultural sector to $10 billion by 2050.
“Farmers are encouraged to apply to Tasmanian Irrigation for a water entitlement to ensure this vital infrastructure is delivered for the region,” Minister Palmer said.
Tasmanian Irrigation will be working with those who already committed to water entitlements under the previously announced scheme, and there is no need for any reapplications.
Water sales will be open until the end of February, with the project to be up and running by 2028.
Application forms can be downloaded at: https://www.tasmanianirrigation.com.au/schemes/tamar-irrigation-scheme
