The Andrews Labor Government has launched a grants program to support improvements to water infrastructure so that we make the most of all available water supplies, including increasing the use of recycled water and stormwater, to create more resilient cities and towns.

Minister for Water Lisa Neville announced that the $14.1 million Integrated Water Management grants will run over three years to boost our water security by co-investing in priority projects identified in Melbourne and across regional Victoria.

The investment will provide $11 million to infrastructure projects, with the remainder on feasibility studies and business case development.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas has strongly encouraged Integrated Water Management members to apply.

The Integrated Water Management grants are open to applications from more than 100 organisations which are members of the Integrated Water Management Forums including local government, Traditional Owner groups, water corporations and catchment management authorities.

Round one of the new grants program has now opened for Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria.

Ensuring Traditional Owner values and aspirations are represented in water management planning is a priority of the program. It includes both a dedicated non-competitive, flexible funding stream for Traditional Owner Groups as well as these groups being eligible for the competitive funding streams.

For more information on the grants go to: www.water.vic.gov.au/liveable/integrated-water-management-program/iwm-framework/iwm-grants.

These grants are just one of many ways the Andrews Labor Government is working to secure the future water supply for our state, meeting the challenges of a warmer and drier climate, changing demands and population growth.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville

“We’re taking action to build our climate resilience and fight climate change by saving water through projects such as stormwater harvesting and increased water recycling.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“I encourage Integrated Water Management Forum members in the Werribee District to apply for these grants so they can continue to make our water system more secure and water our green spaces.”

“These grants encourage organisations to work together to activate open spaces for the community to enjoy, which is more important than ever with more people spending time outside.”