National Urban Water and Desalination Plan
Yields from dams have declined over the past decade and there is a risk of further declines in rainfall and runoff as a result of climate change. Consequently, we need to find new sources of water for urban supplies that are less dependent on the climate.
Under the National Urban Water and Desalination Plan the Australian Government will provide $1 billion over six years (commencing 2008/09) to help secure water supplies.
The Plan targets cities and towns of 50,000 people or more and will support projects that use desalination, recycling and stormwater harvesting to improve water supply security.
The $1 billion National Urban Water and Desalination Plan is a key element of the Water for the Future framework.
Current funding
- General funding round - closed 30 June 2009
- Stormwater harvesting and reuse projects
- Round 2: Open until 10 February 2010
Program outcomes
Funding already committed under the Plan includes:
- $86.9 million for 13 projects from the first round of the Special call for stormwater harvesting and reuse projects
- Centres of excellence in desalination and water recycling
- $30.2 million for the Glenelg to Adelaide Parklands water recycling project in South Australia
- $20 million for the Barwon water recycling project in Victoria
- a desalination plant in Adelaide, South Australia, subject to a proposal from the South Australian Government, which meets the plan's criteria
Contact
Urban Water Security Branch
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
GPO Box 787
Canberra ACT 2601
Telephone: 1800 218 478
See also
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For up-to-date information about the Australian Government's Water for the Future plan.
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