General News
23 April, 2022
Labor Also Commits Funding To Cairns Water Security
AN Albanese Labor Government will provide $107.5 million for the Cairns Water Security project to secure water for Cairns into the future.
The announcement happened on Saturday, April 16, after the Coalition announced their commitment to the water security project for $107.5 million which would cover half of the total cost.
Labor’s decision came after Federal Labor committed to expanding the remit of the National Water Grid Fund to clear the way for this project and others like it to be funded.
This important project will give Cairns residents peace of mind about their water security now and into the future.
According to Cairns Regional Council, without this project, drinking water is set to run out in 2026.
Federal Labor looks forward to funding the project after going through the appropriate processes.
More than a week ago, Labor committed to expanding the remit of the National Water Grid Fund with the Cairns Water Security project in mind.
“Labor specifically named the Cairns Water Security Project as one that would benefit from that announcement,” said Senator Nita Green.
“So Labor’s support for this important project will come as no surprise.
“The difference between Labor and the LNP is that Labor delivers on its promises.
“Cairns needs water security, and an Albanese Labor Government will deliver.”
Labor candidate for Leichhardt, Elida Faith, said it was essential to deliver on the water security project for the well-being of Cairns residents.
“This project is crucial for Cairns’ future water security, and I have been working hard to secure this commitment for our community,” Ms Faith said.
“That is why I am so pleased to have the Leader of the Australian Labor Party, Anthony Albanese, in town to announce that a Labor Government will deliver water security for Cairns.”
Labor candidate for Kennedy, Jason Brandon, said this was an important project for the Kennedy division.
“Part of the Kennedy electorate includes the Cairns Southern approaches, and many of the residents and farmers are supportive of it,” Mr Brandon said.
According to the Labor Party, the Liberal Government abolished the National Water Commission which left a policy vacuum for Australia’s water security.
They said the Morrison Government did not deliver a statutory National Water Grid Authority, did not renew the National Water Initiative and disbanded the National Water Grid Advisory Board.
The Labor Party claims that in addition to broadening the investment framework for the National Water Grid Fund to include regional and rural town water, an Albanese Labor Government will establish a National Water Commission to drive ongoing water reform and future proof Australia’s water resources.
