Joint media release: 25.5 billion litres of water one step closer to reaching Tassie farmers

Senator The Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
Rebecca White MP, Member for Lyons

Less than a year into construction, Tasmania’s Northern Midlands Irrigation Scheme project has reached a major milestone, with 50 percent of pipes now in the ground.  

Once complete, the pipeline will help deliver 25.5 billion litres of water each year to farms in the Cressy, Epping Forrest, Campbell Town and Ross districts, covering an area of more than 7,000 hectares.

The Albanese Government has contributed half the cost of the landmark project -  $108.98 million - through the National Water Grid Fund. Tasmanian Irrigation and the Tasmanian Government have also contributed funding.

These farms help put food, such as berries and leafy greens, on the tables for all Australians. Many farms will soon be able to expand, with the scheme meaning more land can be irrigated, allowing for extra, and more diverse, crops to be planted.

This increased water supply will help drive economic growth in the Northern Midlands region, with a $184 million boost to farming revenue and $54 million boost to Tasmania’s economy.

Early works have also progressed on the construction of supporting pump stations and balance tanks.

Construction work has generated approximately 150 jobs for locals, with hundreds more expected once the scheme is operating.

Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt said the Albanese Government was committed to supporting Tasmania’s farmers and their industry.

“In the lead up to the 2022 election, we announced our funding commitment for this important project, in our first term we delivered on that funding promise and now we’re already seeing major milestones being achieved,” Minister Watt said.

“Shortly, these pipes will have 25.5 billion litres of water pumped through them every year – delivering this precious resource to Tassie farmers.”

Federal Member for Lyons, Rebecca White, today visited one of the farms set to receive water from the scheme.

“Water security is vital for our farmers so they can make decisions about their business and this project is another example of government partnering with farmers to make sure they have confidence for the future,” Ms White said.

“Farmers in this district have a long history of driving economic prosperity for our state and with the delivery of irrigation water I am excited to watch how they continue to innovate and contribute to our state’s strong agricultural brand.

“I’m very proud to be part of a government that is committed to working to support regional Tasmania to build our state’s economy.”

The Northern Midlands Irrigation Scheme project is being delivered by Tasmanian Irrigation and it is expected to be completed in late 2026.