Menindee graziers will benefit from long-term water security through the Federal Government’s National Water Grid Connections funding pathway to construct a new pipeline between Broken Hill and Menindee.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the Federal Coalition Government will contribute $5 million towards the construction of the $11.5 million Broken Hill to Menindee Graziers’ Pipeline, securing the region’s future.

“This vital project will improve the quality and reliability of water infrastructure for Menindee graziers and support the expansion of agricultural industries right across the Far West,” Mr Coulton said.

“The project will involve a dedicated pipeline across 320,000 hectares of farmland between Stephen’s Creek Reservoir and Sunset Strip to support 16 graziers.

“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, and we are backing our farmers, especially in preparation for future droughts.”

The Broken Hill to Menindee Graziers’ Pipeline is one of 40 water infrastructure projects nationwide that will share in $108 million in federal funding.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said through this funding pathway, the Australian Government is investing in packages of water infrastructure projects brought forward by states and territories right across the country to improve water reliability and efficiency.

“The National Water Grid Connections is all about driving the construction of smaller-scale projects over the next two years to provide short term economic stimulus,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“The cumulative impact for the National Water Grid will be significant. Collectively, these projects are expected to support over 7,000 hectares of irrigable land and connect 400 new customers. An additional 13,000 customers are expected to benefit from improved water access or reliability.

“Up to 1,175 jobs will be supported during construction, with over 2,550 ongoing and up to 500 more seasonal jobs set to be created nationally.

“The $3.5 billion National Water Grid Fund is paving the way to national water security, while promoting local economic activity and job creation along the way.”

Up to $20 million was made available for each state and territory to deliver projects over the next two years, with an Australian Government contribution of up to $5 million per project.

For further information, visit www.nationalwatergrid.gov.au.