Funding Secured for Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades in Loxton and Waikerie

Published 9th December 2024
Council is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $1.07 million in funding to complete essential upgrades to wastewater treatment plants in both Loxton and Waikerie.

This funding comes through the Federal Government’s Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER) initiative, a program designed to enhance water management practices, safeguard vital water resources, and protect the natural environment.

The WISER initiative represents a significant investment in South Australia’s water infrastructure, with $13 million allocated to improve sustainability across the state. Of this, $632,500 has been earmarked for the Loxton Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade, while $440,520 will go towards improving the Waikerie Wastewater Treatment Plant. The grant funding covers 50% of the total project budget, with the remaining 50% to be contributed by Council.

The Loxton Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade will provide approximately 200 megalitres of recycled water per year, which will be used to irrigate local parks and gardens, providing a sustainable water source for these community areas. The upgrades will also help to reduce the risk of localised flooding during peak periods of rain.

Similarly, the Waikerie Wastewater Treatment Plant will see an upgrade that will also produce around 200 megalitres of recycled water per year, helping to maintain the town's public spaces and reducing reliance on alternate water sources.

By implementing these wastewater treatment upgrades, the District Council of Loxton Waikerie is making significant strides toward a more sustainable future, while also contributing to the health and wellbeing of the local environment and community.

Comments attributable to CEO David Beaton:

“The WISER funding is an important step toward ensuring our communities have access to reliable, sustainable water resources for years to come. The upgrades will deliver a range of environmental and economic benefits to our region, and we are grateful for the Federal Government’s investment into South Australia’s water resourcing and infrastructure”.

Comments attributable to Mayor Trevor Norton:

“The grants we've received will benefit both of our major townships by providing around 200 megalitres of recycled water at each location. This will help maintain the exceptional appearance of our town gardens, as they are today.
Any reduction in pressure on the River Murray will benefit not just our communities, but all of South Australia. It will also allow us to continue these projects with significantly less strain on our budget and our ratepayers.”