Cairns Regional Council has welcomed a $87.5 million increase in State Government funding towards the Cairns Water Security Stage 1 Project.
The recent state budget allocation will take funding for the regional water security project to $195 million, which will complement the $107.5 million committed by the Federal Government.
Water Minister, Glenn Butcher met with Cairns Regional Council Mayor, Amy Eden and local MPs Michael Healy and Craig Crawford, to discuss the increased funding and the next steps for the project, including works commencement in August.
“We back our Councils, and we back Cairns – we’re always there to help Councils with their water infrastructure needs,” said Mr Butcher.
“I know this is such an important water security project and I look forward to working with Mayor Eden and the Council team to see construction kick-off in the coming months.”
Minister Butcher also inspected the Freshwater Creek Water Treatment Plant and spoke with Mayor Eden about the measures being implemented by Council to further bolster the region’s water security, including installation of smart meters and other water saving measures.
“The increased commitment delivers significant cost-of-living relief which shows the Queensland Government is listening and appreciate how critical this project is for our community and our city’s future,” said Mayor Eden.
The Cairns Water Security Stage 1 Project is set to strengthen Cairns’ future water supply and includes a new water intake at the Mulgrave River, a new water treatment plant and water reservoirs at Gordonvale and supporting infrastructure to connect the new intake to the existing water network.
“Our vocal local MPs, the Council and the community have all said that water security is a priority for Cairns, so we are listening and delivering,” said Queensland Premier, Steven Miles.
In December last year, Cairns Regional Council awarded design and construction contract to John Holland Queensland.
Construction is expected to commence in August, weather permitting, and the project is expected to be complete in 2026. Construction is expected to support more-than 1,600Â construction jobs.
