Environmental approvals granted for CWSS1

Cairns Regional Council has received federal environmental approvals for the $472 million Cairns Water Security Stage 1 Project (CWSS1), paving the way for the project’s commencement.

This vital project, the biggest infrastructure project undertaken by Council, will enhance the region’s water infrastructure, ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for our growing community.

The Australian Government has granted approval for the project under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. The EPBC Act is Australia’s main national environmental legislation.

Contractors are starting preparations of the water treatment plant construction site, with construction anticipated to commence in August.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said most of the work will occur in already developed urban and agricultural areas.

“The Cairns Water Security Stage 1 Project has been carefully designed to balance the need for critical water infrastructure with environmental preservation,” she said.

“We’ve chosen an intake design, pipeline routes and construction sites to reduce impacts on natural habitats and local wildlife.

“We are thrilled to receive the environmental approval from the Federal Government which was another step towards construction starting.”

The State Government last month announced that it had increased its commitment to Cairns Water Security Stage 1 by $87.5 million to $195 million. This is an additional $87.5 million from the State and complements the $107.5 million previously committed by the Albanese Government.

“The State Government has stepped up for our community and we’ll now work with the State and our local federal representatives including Warren Entsch and Senator Nita Green, both of whom are supporters of the project, to secure a matched Federal commitment,” Cr Eden said.

“Such a commitment on this project would send the message to the people of Cairns that all three levels of government are optimistic about the future prosperity of the city.”

The Cairns Water Security Stage 1 Project is a critical infrastructure initiative designed to support the region's water needs. The project will involve the construction of a new water intake, new water treatment facilities, pipelines, and storage reservoirs.