Australia steps up investment in water projects

The Australian government has put out a call for expressions of interest from state and territory governments to access a round of funding for water projects worth AUD 200 million ($154 million).

The funds will be available from 2017 to 2018 through the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund, to build or augment existing water infrastructure including dams, pipelines, or managed aquifer recharge.

The deadline for applications is 16 March, and 17 August, 2017.

The aim of the development fund is to secure water supply and deliver regional economic benefits in Australia. The overall fund has two parts, a capital component worth AUD 400 million and feasibility component worth AUD 59.5 million. The latest round of funding relates to capital projects.

The money is on top of AUD 247.5 million in water funding commitments announced by the Australian Government during the 2016 Federal Election.