Plans for major South West water infrastructure upgrades are on the table after Federal Government investment

Major water infrastructure plans to improve South West water quality and offer greater access to agricultural and industrial sectors are in the pipeline after backing from the Federal Government. The $800,000 investment will see the opening of a business case that will investigate a series of water “solutions” and expansions in Binningup, Myalup and Collie. On the case list is the potential expansion of the Binningup desalination plant — which supplies 30 per cent of Perth’s water — construction of a 20-gigalitre Wellington Dam desalination plant and an all new irrigation scheme. Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the project would improve water quality and access for agricultural and industrial customers to support long-term growth in the South West. “We are getting on with the job of supporting the delivery of the infrastructure that Western Australians need and deserve,” he said. “Our Government’s investment will kick-start the detailed planning work needed to help identify the right water infrastructure in the right place for further investment in the (South West) region.” Though still in its planning stage the project is funded through the $3.5 billion National Water Grid Fund, which aims to provide region-specific water storage and distribution solutions. If built, the project would include water supply to the proposed Myalup Primary Industries Reserve, which saw a State Government investment of close to $5 million in the 2018 to 2019 budget. The Reserve is due to include a proposed 500ha horticultural zone and support about 450 new jobs. Regional Development and Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said it was critical for the security of South West horticulture to drill down on new local water supply options. “The McGowan Government is delivering practical solutions for our growers, and this funding will allow us to investigate the best opportunities to support sustainable production and build resilience,” she said. Forrest MHR Nola Marino also backed the potential development and said the business case was about practical and sustainable growth for the agricultural, horticultural and industrial sectors.