Upgrades coming for SA
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South Australia’s water infrastructure is set for a significant upgrade, supported by $13.3 million in funding.
A joint effort between the federal and South Australian governments is targeting sustainability and resilience in water management.
This funding is part of the broader $211 million Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER) initiative, which supports projects across Australia.
A significant portion of the funding - $8.8 million - will go towards extending the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme recycled water pipeline to Mallala.
This project will enable the delivery of up to 1.3 gigalitres of recycled water annually, supporting high-tech greenhouse vegetable production and boosting agricultural sustainability in the region.
Another $2.4 million will connect the community of Wellington East to a drinking water scheme, providing a reliable and safe water supply for the town.
Meanwhile, the Riverland area will see upgrades to wastewater treatment plants in Loxton and Waikerie. Loxton’s plant will receive a $1.3 million upgrade, which will increase its recycled water capacity to 200 megalitres per year while reducing flooding risks. Waikerie’s facility will benefit from an $881,040 revamp, also boosting recycled water output to 200 megalitres annually for use in irrigating community spaces.
The investment is shared between $6.6 million from the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund and $6.7 million from project partners.
Susan Close, South Australia’s Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, has highlighted the collaborative nature of the funding, describing it as “critical for reducing reliance on climate-vulnerable water sources, including the River Murray”.
The upgrades are part of a national push to improve water management and sustainability.
Many projects under the WISER initiative incorporate renewable energy, recycled materials, and infrastructure refurbishment.
