But Is Labor Interested In Country NSW?
The 2026 NSW State Budget will determine whether the Boorowa Pipeline will move
to construction, with Hilltops Council confirming design work is expected to be finalised
this month.
The project, estimated to cost $56 million, including 30 per cent contingency, is a critical piece of infrastructure to secure Boorowa’s long-term water supply and support future housing and economic growth.
However, concerns are growing across regional NSW over the absence of a clear funding pathway for regional water infrastructure projects.
No new investment has been allocated to the NSW Safe and Secure Water Program
for three consecutive years, while expressions of interest under the National Water
Grid program remain on hold.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, said the upcoming budget presents a crucial
opportunity for the Government to demonstrate its commitment to regional water security.
“The NSW Budget must prioritise funding for critical regional water infrastructure, including the Boorowa Pipeline,” Ms Cooke said.
“This project is ready to move to construction. What is missing is a clear funding commitment from the NSW Government.”
Ms Cooke said the project is essential not only for future growth but also for safeguarding the community against drought.
“The lack of a funding pathway is holding back housing development and economic
opportunities in Boorowa,” she said.
“More importantly, it leaves the community vulnerable should severe drought conditions return, and residents cannot and should not be expected to truck in water like we’ve seen in the past.”
“We know the Government is reviewing the way it supports local water utilities, but communities cannot afford delays while critical infrastructure remains unfunded.”
“Whether through renewed investment in the Safe and Secure Water Program or
another dedicated capital funding mechanism, councils need certainty so they can deliver essential projects.”
Ms Cooke also pointed to similar challenges facing other regional communities, including Narrandera, where plans for a new water treatment plant are progressing, but a funding pathway remains unclear.
Hilltops Council has advised that only minor refinements remain before the Boorowa Pipeline design is finalised later this month, placing the project in a strong position to proceed should funding be secured.
“The upcoming budget will be a real test of the Government’s commitment to delivering
safe, reliable drinking water for country communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“After three years without new investment in key regional water programs, our locals are tired of empty words and empty promises.”
“Boorowa has done the planning and the design work is nearly complete. The question now is whether the Government is prepared to back it.”
The South West Slopes Times covers an area approximately the size of Fiji in country NSW. We look after a population of more than 50,000 people with our staff servicing 7 major towns and dozens of villages with our story telling footprint.
We offer weekly print editions at $3 a copy and we also offer digital subscriptions across 3 months $30, 6 months $60 and 12 months $120.
We are one of the last truly local independent family run newspaper businesses in the state.
Contact us today to find out how we can promote your business or organisation across our huge network by emailing ads@thetimes.net.au or by calling 0413 763 216.
If you have a news tip, lead or scoop for us please make contact as we love celebrating our communities. You can contribute articles via our South West Slopes Times website.