AN additional $2 billion for the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund shows the Federal Government is listening to industry and is serious about helping to create jobs, especially in the regions.
That was the reaction of the proponents of Bowen River Utilities to the Budget announcement Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack on Tuesday night.
BRU is already in the process of developing a major infrastructure project comprising of: Urannah Water Scheme, Collinsville Irrigation Scheme and the Bowen Renewable Energy Hub.
BRU project director John Cotter said the additional $2 billion would unlock the potential to deliver high quality and efficient water projects that would enhance Australia's water security.
"We are about to publish our detailed business case and we are ready to go," Mr Cotter said.
"The numbers are in and the Urannah Water Scheme is the only project that stacks up to deliver food and green jobs for Collinsville.
"The sooner we can access support from the fund, the sooner we can deliver jobs and economic prosperity for North Queensland."
The infrastructure project is expected to create almost 1200 jobs during construction and an additional 650 jobs once operational.
The project will also help to facilitate other projects in the region and diversify the local economy, he said.
"BRU will be actively pursuing support from the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund," Mr Cotter said.
"Delivering this project in a timely manner will assist in the COVID-19 recovery and help get many towns within regional Queensland back on their feet faster."
