A future Mettam Liberal Government has today committed $14 million to enhance water infrastructure in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, according to Rowena Olsen and Libby Mettam, WA Liberal Leader.

"This $14 million investment in Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s Water Bank Project is transformative for the Goldfields,” said Ms Olsen

“It secures our recycled water supply and underpins the growth and sustainability of our community and by enhancing this critical infrastructure, we’re making Kalgoorlie-Boulder an even more attractive place to live and work.

“This investment into the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s infrastructure, secures sustainable and integrated water supply for the region, ensuring high-quality public open spaces and meeting the liveability expectations of modern communities.”

Kalgoorlie-Boulder relies on a single potable water supply piped 600km from Perth via the Water Corporation’s Goldfields Water Supply Scheme (GWSS). The city is a pioneer in using recycled water for primary irrigation of public infrastructure, managing over $150 million in wastewater infrastructure that captures, treats, and recycles over 2,300ML of grey water, sewerage, and storm water annually.

The Stage 1 Project of the Water Bank initiative will significantly contribute to the region by increasing the capture of 129ML of recycled water, addressing the 350ML storm water loss in FY2023/24. It will support the construction of over 490 new residential houses in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

The project will enhance sustainability for the education and community sectors through reduced water costs for sporting ovals and improve public open spaces and sporting ovals, aiding in the attraction and retention of a population that contributes $15.1 billion annually to the economy. Additionally, it will support small businesses and provide new water supplies for emerging industries, including critical minerals and METS sectors, boosting private investment confidence in the region.

“Our Building a Better Future blueprint makes it clear that we will do everything to ease the cost of living,” said Libby Mettam, WA Liberal Leader.

“The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder says this investment will increase improve business confidence, and boost private investment in the Goldfields, which will create new, well-paying jobs.

“Rowena Olsen is exactly the kind of local member the Goldfields needs, having already delivered a commitment to improved power supply, emulated by the Government, and now securing Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s water supply.

Member of the Legislative Council for the Mining and Pastoral Region, Neil Thomson highlighted the importance of water supply for regional communities.

"Water is the lifeblood of communities – this investment will enhance the City’s ability to manage and recycle water efficiently, supporting both residential and industrial growth,” said Mr Thomson

It’s a forward-thinking initiative that addresses current needs while planning for future demands."