Next step for the Macquarie Wambuul Water Security Project

The Central West is one step closer to improved water security, with a preferred option for the Macquarie–Wambuul Water Security Project locked in to progress to the next phase, marking a major milestone for the project’s $9.3 million full business case. 

It follows the thorough assessment of four possible solutions to shore up water supplies in the catchment and to support a healthy river system, particularly for the Macquarie Marshes.

Coming out on top as the most viable option to boost drought resilience for the region is to enable Dubbo Regional Council to increase its access to groundwater when Burrendong Dam reaches a critically low level.

This would improve water reliability for the town, greatly reduce reliance on the dam and free up surface water for nearby communities such as Nyngan and Cobar.

Work is currently underway to further assess the viability of this option, including what infrastructure will be required.

NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is inviting the community to learn more about the next steps and ask any questions they may have.

Face to face sessions will be held at:

• Wednesday 25 March: 11am to 12.30pm at Dubbo RSL
• Thursday 26 March: 8.30am to 10am at Nyngan RSL
• Thursday 26 March: 1pm to 2.30pm at Warren Golf Club

There will also be an online webinar at 4:30pm on Tuesday, 31 March. To register for the webinar or to find out more information please visit: Macquarie-Wambuul Water Security Project

The business case is funded by the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund and the NSW Government and is expected to be finalised by December 2026.

NSW DCCEEW Executive Director of Infrastructure Development Lisa Hingerty said:

“I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to contribute their feedback during the consultation period.

“The insights shared by our communities, combined with a rigorous investigation, have enabled us to identify the strongest, most sustainable solution to ensure long-term reliability and resilience across the region.

“With a clear direction now established, we can confidently move into the next stage of project which brings us closer to delivering improved water security and reliability for communities throughout the Macquarie-Castlereagh catchment.”