The development of new and highly water efficient irrigation projects in Tasmania will receive a $14.8 million boost from the Australian Government.

The funding was announced today by the Australian Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong, and Tasmanian Minister for Primary Industries and Water, David Llewellyn.

This funding forms part of the Australian Government’s election commitment to contribute up to $140 million, subject to due diligence, towards the development of modern and efficient irrigation in Tasmania.

The Tasmanian Government has also committed up to $80 million through its Water Infrastructure Fund.

“The Rudd Government is committed to investing in efficient irrigation in Tasmania,” Senator Wong said.

“The Australian Government’s initial payment of $14.8 million will contribute to the development of comprehensive project plans and business cases for a range of proposed irrigation schemes in Tasmania.”

This payment is facilitated through the National Partnership Agreement on Water for the Future, recently signed by the Prime Minister and Tasmanian Premier, the Hon. David Bartlett.

“This agreement between Australian and Tasmanian governments provides for both investment in irrigation infrastructure projects across Tasmania, and progress on key policy reforms agreed under the National Water Initiative,” Senator Wong said.

Minister Llewellyn said the funds announced today will assist Tasmania to undertake several sustainable irrigation infrastructure developments to help the state use its water resources within the irrigation sector in a sustainable and efficient manner.

“The Tasmanian Government has reached an important agreement with the Australian Government and I am pleased that we have committed $80 million to the program through our Water Infrastructure Fund,” Mr Llewellyn said.

The Australian Government’s commitment includes $4.2 million for the CSIRO Tasmania Sustainable Yields project that is expected to be finalised soon.

This project will provide a comprehensive assessment of current and future water yields across Tasmania in light of climate change and development activities. It will provide critical information needed to underpin statutory water management planning in Tasmania and assist in developing sound irrigation proposals.

“I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this investment and the subsequent benefits that will flow to Tasmanian communities,” Senator Wong said.

For more information on Water for the Future, visit www.environment.gov.au/water