The Federal Government has committed $10 million to deliver three water projects, including two pump stations, in Central West New South Wales – part of a $100 million package over the next two years to fund the Regional Recovery Partnerships in ten Australian regions.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, said the projects formed part of the Australian Government’s commitment to jobs and economic diversification.
“This investment will deliver Stage 2 of the Parkes Water Security project and Part 1 of Stage 2 of the Central West Industrial Park in Forbes,” Mr McCormack said.
“Works to be funded include two new pump stations that are critical components of the Parkes Water Security project and construction of significant drainage works for the Central West Industrial Park.
“The $4 million Central West Industrial Park and $5 million Parkes Water Security projects contribute to the broader regional development objectives of bringing together planning and investment to drive jobs and economic activity through the Parkes Special Activation Precinct. The projects help deliver infrastructure that supports businesses to establish, expand and diversify.”
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, said the projects will support regional development and tourism, with flow-on effects for the community.
“The town of Lake Cargelligo will be transformed with a $1 million upgrade for the village centre, with new infrastructure and facilities to service tourists and residents,” Mr Coulton said.
“These projects are providing vital infrastructure for both the agricultural industry and community alike, helping improve living standards and the attractiveness of the region as a place to live, work and visit.
“Many of our regions are still recovering from drought and the pandemic, which is why it is important now more than ever that all levels of government work together to rapidly deliver jobs, generate economic recovery and drive tourism-related opportunities.”
Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Hon Nola Marino MP, said she approved the projects as they were excellent examples of investment in the region to further support local business to recover and diversify.
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Ken Keith OAM, believes these projects are helping the region look to the future.
“These valuable water projects will future-proof the Parkes township water supply and support anticipated residential growth as a result of the thousands of new jobs created by developments such as Inland Rail, mining and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct,” Mr Keith said.
The focus of the Regional Recovery Partnership projects is to support economic growth in the ten locations (especially after COVID-19), contribute to economic diversification and aid employment opportunities.
For more information about the Regional Recovery Partnership projects, click here.
