$600m Allocated To Paradise Dam

February 8, 2022

The State Government will commit $600 million to kickstart the rebuilding of the Paradise Dam wall to original height, but is asking the Federal Government to also fund the project.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the project – which would cost up to $1.2 billion in total – would create about 250 jobs during construction.

“Our $600 million investment in Paradise Dam is a game changer for the families and farmers in Bundaberg,” the Premier said.

“Returning Paradise Dam to its original height and reinforcing the wall will deliver long-term water security for the region and keep communities located further downstream safe.

“This rebuild will also support thousands of long-term jobs and deliver significant flow-on benefits for local businesses and contractors, making it an important initiative in the economic recovery of this region.

“We’re working closely with the Federal Government to secure funding for this project.

“But let me be clear – regardless of Federal support, I am fully committed to rebuilding Paradise Dam.”

Deputy Premier Steven Miles said returning Paradise Dam to its full height would bring it back to its full 300,000 megalitre capacity.

“We always said we would prioritise safety and investigate the best option for the Wide Bay community, and that is exactly what we’ve done,” Mr Miles said.

“This investment will deliver long-term water security for irrigators and create jobs in the region.

“It’s now time for the Federal Government for put their words into action and allocate their share of funding towards the project.”

Water Minister Glenn Butcher said he would continue to work with Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and the Federal Government on a collaborative funding approach.

“I’ve had some really good discussions with the Deputy Prime Minister and we’re getting close to hammering out a funding deal,” he said.

“This project is ready to go with early construction works starting as soon as next year. There’s no reason to delay this project which is why we’re kickstarting it with this injection of funds.”

Mr Butcher said last year that irrigators would not be asked to pay the cost of restoring the dam to full capacity.

The next stage of the project includes progressing the design and delivery methodology, early contractor engagement and procurement activities.

A detailed project timeframe is being developed and early works will begin in 2023.

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