The Queensland Government is delivering early works for the Paradise Dam Improvement Project, in a decisive step to secure water security and regional prosperity in Wide Bay.
The Paradise Dam early works will include the construction of a temporary accommodation village, two concrete batch plants, the establishment of support facilities and site preparation.
This will pave the way for major construction work on the new dam wall, ensuring the project stays on track and aligns with the rigorous environmental and community consultation processes facilitated by the Coordinator-General.
Project activities, including road upgrades to enhance community safety and accommodate increased traffic movements to and from the dam, as well as geotechnical and quarry investigations, are ongoing.
The detailed business case is expected to be delivered to the Queensland Government in early 2026.
The Paradise Dam project seeks to address safety concerns following an independent review, with a clear focus on ensuring the new dam wall’s structural integrity and its capacity to meet the demands of a growing population and changing climate.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said early works for the new dam wall would restore water security for the region.
“The Queensland Government takes water security in our regions seriously, which is why we are fixing Paradise Dam to safeguard water supply for the Wide Bay region,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“The announcement is a significant step in the right direction to deliver a new dam wall, which will support jobs, safeguard Bundaberg’s $2 billion agricultural industry, and benefit the community for generations to come.”
Queensland’s Coordinator-General, Gerard Coggan, said approving the early works was crucial to maintaining momentum on the Paradise Dam project.
“By fostering strong partnerships between government agencies, stakeholders, and the community, we are ensuring the Paradise Dam Improvement Project meets the highest standards of safety, environmental responsibility, and community benefit.”
Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy, said the Queensland Government remained committed to delivering Paradise Dam, laying the foundation for regional growth and opportunity across the Bundaberg and Burnett regions.
“Water is at the heart of every thriving community, and these early works on Paradise Dam will be a vital step in ensuring Bundaberg has the secure and reliable water supply it needs now and into the future,” Minister Leahy said.
“This project reflects the Queensland Government’s commitment to investing in the critical infrastructure that lasts for future generations.”
Member for Callide Bryson Head said the project was critical for the local community and industry.
“Water security is a key priority for Callide and rebuilding Paradise Dam is a priority for the Crisafulli Government,” Mr Head said.
