More funding to strengthen water security in Central West NSW

The Albanese Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, and the Cabonne Shire Council are each contributing $2.7 million to deliver the Molong Water Security Pipeline project to provide safer, more reliable and sustainable water to more than 3,000 people living in Molong, Cumnock and Yeoval. 

The project replaces a century-old, nine-kilometre section of the 19-kilometre pipeline which spans from the Molong Creek Dam to Molong Water Filtration Plant. 

Long past its lifespan, the infrastructure is experiencing frequent failures and ongoing leaks, losing almost 20 percent of water each year.

Shovels are expected to be in the ground in April 2026 to deliver this critical upgrade and it’s due to be completed in early 2027.

In addition to the new pipeline, the Albanese Government has also committed $562,000 through the National Water Grid Fund to develop the Central Tablelands Regional Water Supply preliminary business case. 

Cabonne Council, Orange City Council and Central Tablelands Water are equally contributing toward the remaining $562,000 for the $1.12 million business case to investigate the benefits of an interconnected water supply system for the region.

It will also provide advice on the best ways to address water security issues in Orange, Molong, Cumnock, Yeoval  and communities serviced by Central Tablelands Water to address more frequent droughts and the challenges associated with population growth which is expected to jump from 52,000 to 80,000 in the next 30 years. 

The funding for these two projects is in addition to the jointly funded:

• $7.7 million Belubula Water Security Scheme project
• $400,000 Orange Purified Recycled Water Treatment Demonstration Plant preliminary business case.

Quotes attributable to the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt:

“The Albanese Government is pleased to invest in water projects for the Central West that are helping the region to grow and thrive.

“This work, made possible by all three levels of government  working together will make sure the region has a high-quality, reliable water source for years to come.

Quotes attributable to the NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson: 

“The new pipeline will make a huge difference for locals in Molong, Cumnock and Yeoval who can rest easy knowing they will have the modern water infrastructure they need to put them on the front foot, particularly during the next drought. 

“While exploring water security options for the Central Tablelands more broadly is vital in helping the Australian and NSW Governments look to the future, so we can ensure these communities continue to have access to safe, reliable and sustainable water for generations to come.”

Quotes attributable to the Cabonne Shire Council Mayor Cr Kevin Beatty:

“The replacement of the leaking pipeline will save megalitres of litres of water and ensure the community has a stable supply for the coming decades. 

“We are also pleased to see the water security preliminary business case progress. Our Council is committed to delivering safe and reliable water and we’re grateful to work with the NSW and Australian Governments to get these two projects underway.”

Quote attributable to Orange City Council Mayor Cr Tony Mileto:

“The preliminary business case will help us come up with a consolidated water security plan for Central Tablelands communities. 

“It gives everyone peace of mind that any water challenges in the future will be mitigated through best practice and long-term planning.”

Central Tablelands Water Chair, Andrew Rawson:

“Central Tablelands Water is pleased to collaborate in development of the Preliminary Business Case, a vital step towards shaping the future of water management in our region. 

“Ensuring town water is essential for the continued growth and prosperity of communities across the Central Tablelands region. We welcome the support of both the Australian and New South Wales Governments as we explore strategic options to enhance water resilience.”