State Government Announces Support for East Grampians Water Pipeline

Ararat Rural City Council is excited to see that the Victorian Government has announced $15 million in funding towards extending the East Grampians Water Pipeline project, as part of its Drought Support Package.

In addition to this, Grampians Wimmera Mallee (GWM) Water will also invest $15.6 million towards the project, and the State Government have stated that they will continue to work with the Federal Government to seek further funding to deliver the project to its full scope.

This pipeline expansion will increase access to a high-quality reliable water supply from Lake Fyans to 750 additional rural properties, 10 local towns, 34 fire hydrants, and 66 tanks for firefighting in several local government areas including Ararat Rural City.

The State Government has also announced an additional $35.8 million to help farmers in Southwest Victoria manage the pressures they are facing due to prolonged drought through Primary Producer Support Payments.

More information on the full range of financial, technical and wellbeing support is available on the Agriculture Victoria website, or by phoning 136 186.

"We welcome this increased drought support from the State Government. This announcement comes at a critical time for our community, which has been facing significant economic and wellbeing challenges, compounded by prolonged drought conditions,” says Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison.

“This pipeline project will be a game changer for our region. It's a crucial step towards ensuring water security and economic prosperity for our agricultural sector. We’ll continue to advocate strongly for the resources needed to ensure this project is delivered to its full scope."