Communities in regional and remote NSW are set to benefit from increased water security through a further $369.6 million investment in the Safe and Secure Water Program in the 2022-23 Budget, including $90 million in new money.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the additional investment will help to continue work with local water utilities to fund vital water and sewerage infrastructure projects in the regions.
“Every project delivered by this program makes a tangible difference to the everyday lives of residents in regional communities,” Mr Toole said.
“This funding will ensure we can keep investing in upgrading and building new water infrastructure to safeguard access to quality drinking water, improve water security and provide better wastewater services.”
Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said the Safe and Secure Water Program started in 2017 and has delivered 26 completed projects across towns in regional NSW with funding for more than 200 other projects currently in various stages of delivery.
“From the Bundarra sewerage scheme, the Bourke water treatment plant, and the Finley water treatment plant, Safe and Secure Water projects have improved water security for communities right across regional NSW,” Mr Anderson said.
“Investing in water and wastewater infrastructure unlocks economic potential across rural and regional NSW by providing the services necessary to support population growth and business development.”
The Safe and Secure Water Program (SSWP) is a $1 billion regional infrastructure co-funding program established in 2017.
