State Government investment flows into Broome water infrastructure

Shire of Broome CEO Sam Mastrolembo, Water Minister Simone McGurk, Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna, and Water Corporation Regional Manager Sharon Broad at Broome North Water Resource Recovery Facility (6 December 2023)

• Major upgrades to Broome's wastewater network cater for long-term population and economic growth
• Replacement irrigation scheme for town's 43.5ha of green space

Completion of a major $65.6 million investment in Broome's wastewater and water infrastructure will support the town's development beyond 2050, Water Minister Simone McGurk has announced today.

Delivering environmental, community and tourism benefits, the three-year Water Corporation project included the expansion of Broome North Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) or wastewater treatment plant, enabling it to treat all of Broome's wastewater.

The upgrades cater for the town's long-term population growth and have facilitated the closure of Broome South WRRF. Wastewater flows are now diverted to Broome North via a new 12-kilometre underground pipeline, delivered by Broome-based Kimberley Civil and Drainage.

To maintain the town's 43.5 hectares of public open space, a replacement irrigation scheme supplies non-potable water through new and repurposed infrastructure, which previously used recycled water from Broome South.

This green space, including playing fields, a school oval and the Broome golf course, comprises most of the town's public open space, and provides significant public amenity, and social and economic benefit for the community.

Comments attributed to Water Minister Simone McGurk:

"This investment by the Cook Government is an important milestone in supporting the town's long-term economic development.

"This Water Corporation project has future-proofed Broome's water infrastructure, and delivered a sustainable solution to irrigate its green spaces, providing environmental, community, and tourism benefits.

"The Broome upgrades continue the Cook Government's strong investment in WA's water infrastructure, securing supply in the face of climate change, helping communities thrive and supporting State development.

"The State Government remains committed to delivering important water projects in the North West. This includes most of the 141 communities under Water Corporation's new Aboriginal Communities Water Services program, reflecting this Government's focus on equitable access to water services."

Comments attributed to Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:

"With its golf course and public open spaces, maintaining Broome as a green, liveable community is essential for the town retaining its status as a premier tourist destination, and supporting local sport and recreation initiatives.

"I also commend Water Corporation for supporting local jobs during its three-year project, including Aboriginal-owned Kimberley Civil and Drainage on the new 12-kilometre pipeline, which diverts wastewater flows to Broome North."