The Australian and South Australian governments have pledged $15 million (US$10.76 million) for a business case to move the Northern Water Supply project forward in an effort to secure South Australia’s water future.
If the project gets the green light, it could create a potential 8,000 construction jobs and up to 6,000 ongoing jobs while in operation.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the Federal Government’s $5 million (US$3.59 million) investment builds on the South Australian Government’s $10 million (US$7.17 million) commitment to further develop a business case that will inform the direction of this critical project.
“A safe, reliable and sustainable water source will improve water security, create jobs and help unlock the economic potential of new and expanded opportunities for businesses in the state’s north,” he said.
“Since 2015, the Australian Government has committed more than $75 million (US$53.8 million) from the National Water Grid Fund towards projects in South Australia.”
These projects include the support of premium grape production in McLaren Vale, water security for farmers on the Coolanie Plains, and new water for agribusiness utilising the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme.
Mines in the north of the state also rely on these sources, which can be expensive to extract and be affected by salinity. Additionally, previous attempts to deliver a sustainable water supply to the region have failed due to lack of a strong customer base.
In support of the business case, the State Government has enterd into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with SA Water, BHP, and OZ Minerals to move the project forward.
Premier Steven Marshall said that the Government is always looking for new ways to ensure the efficient use of water because long-term and secure access to water is critical to economic growth, and regional communities rely on industry for jobs and community strength.
