Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke MP has announced the NSW Nationals in Government are continuing to invest in vital water infrastructure projects to improve water security for drought ravaged communities.
Ms Cooke said the NSW Nationals secured more than $87 million in funding to help regional NSW combat the crippling drought. Since 2017, the NSW Government has been assisting the drought affected residents with a $1.8 billion drought package.
“This unprecedented drought has had devastating effects right across the state and we have to ensure that when it does rain, we are ready to go,” Ms Cooke said.
“This new funding for emergency water infrastructure projects, including an additional $15 million for water carting and emergency infrastructure, is on top of the extensive investment in crucial water projects and fast-tracked dams already announced by the NSW Nationals in Government.”
The state-wide funding includes:
- $15 million for additional water carting and emergency infrastructure funding
- $4.6 million for household water efficiency programs to fund business and household water savings program
- $3 million to expedite approval of groundwater license across the state to provide water to isolated towns and farmers for livestock and domestic purpose
Deputy Premier and Leader of the NSW Nationals John Barilaro said the announcement comes off the back of the NSW Nationals showcasing regional NSW to the entire Ministry at Community Cabinet in Bourke earlier this week.
“Regional NSW is the backbone of this state and we are investing in these projects to not only provide relief to drought stricken towns, but equip them for the future,” Mr Barilaro said.
“That is why we are delivering vital infrastructure projects to areas in the state that need it the most.”
The NSW Nationals in Government have committed more than $3 billion to drought relief and water security since 2017, which includes funding for 60 bores across 23 communities and 14 pipelines, such as that from Wentworth to Broken Hill.
Anyone requiring drought assistance is encouraged to visit www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au
