Funding secured for Western Port Recycled Water Scheme

Melbourne’s south east is set to benefit from a significant boost in sustainable water management, as the Federal Government announced a $46.6 million investment in Stage 1 of a new Western Port Recycled Water Scheme. 
 
This crucial funding will enable the completion of the initial phase of the project, paving the way for a project that will bring long-term sustainable community and environmental benefits, and will improve the affordability of water and wastewater services for residents and businesses across the region. 
 
Stage 1 of the integrated water management project, managed by South East Water, involves the construction of a new pump station and 48 km of recycled water pipeline from Pakenham’s Water Recycling Plant to 2,900 hectares of local farms in Cora Lynn, Vervale and Iona. 
 
The scheme was designed by South East Water in conjunction with Southern Rural Water and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action. 

The project will help to build a climate resilient water supply to a region which is a major part of Victoria’s food bowl. 
 
The scheme will provide up to 4,000 megalitres per annum of Class A recycled water, increasing the growth of fresh vegetables and the availability and reliability of water supply for irrigated agriculture in Cardinia Shire. 

The project is expected to start delivering recycled water by 2027. 
 
GSEM Chair Simon McKeon said: 
 
“GSEM welcomes the funding approval by the Minister for the Environment and Water, The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP. This project will create jobs and secure the water supply for one of Victoria’s most significant food producing regions. 

“GSEM has been a persistent advocate of increased investment in recycled water infrastructure across south east Melbourne. 

“In 2020 GSEM successfully lobbied Infrastructure Australia to include south east Melbourne recycled water supply infrastructure upgrades on its Infrastructure Priority List.  

“Since that time, we’ve seen $72 million invested in the Dingley Recycled Water Scheme and now $46.6 million for the Western Port Recycled Water Scheme. 

“Congratulations to South East Water for its ongoing commitment and delivery of recycled water infrastructure across the south east.”