The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced a $5 billion, 10-year investment plan to secure the state’s water future, which they say has been “sorely neglected” under Labor.
Under the Liberal and Nationals’ Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, a new fund will be established to replace the previous Safe and Secure Water Program, with royalties going towards the design and construction of regional water projects.
The fund would be backed by legislation and supported by royalties, and future Governments would be locked into continued investment in the sector.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the local economy, job market and housing growth are being stifled by infrastructure that has reached its limits.
“This investment in the essential infrastructure will unlock more homes across Oxley and ease pressure on housing supply,” Mr Kemp said.
“In the Hastings Valley for example, projects like the Cowarra Water Treatment Plant and the Thrumster Wastewater Scheme are critical to unlocking new homes and supporting future jobs and economic growth.
NSW Nationals Leader and Member for Coffs Harbour, Gurmesh Singh, said the program will ensure communities right across regional NSW see the investment they need and deserve.
“This Program will build the foundational infrastructure needed to attract new families and new business to the bush now and in the future,” Mr Singh said.
Shadow Minister for Water Steph Cooke said the Program was designed following extensive consultation with the water and local government sectors, ensuring that funding is available to both replace aging infrastructure and support regional development.
“The Safe and Secure Water Program was a lifeline to regional areas; however, it did not fund programs to support housing development and industrial growth,” Ms Cooke said.
“Under a Liberals and Nationals Government, money will once again flow into more pressing infrastructure projects, such as pipelines and treatment plants, to ensure the health and liveability of residents today.”