Parliamentary Secretary for Water, Dr Mike Kelly, announced funding of $4.6 million for the Ridges at Peregian Springs Climate Change Adaptive Urban Development project.
"This project will reduce demand on current water supplies for the area and will ensure greater water security for this region in the future," Dr Kelly said.
The Australian Government investment is part of the $254.8 million National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns program, under the Water for the Future initiative.
"This project meets a 2007 election commitment and demonstrates how successfully we can recycle and re-use our scarce water supplies for the benefit of local communities, industry and the environment," Dr Kelly said.
"Recycling wastewater which is already in the system reduces the agricultural, industrial and commercial demand on potable supplies and improves water security for local communities.
"The capture, treatment and reuse of urban roof water for potable purposes, together with recycling wastewater is a good example of innovation to help secure our future water supplies. This Government is committed to enabling future sustainable developments and will continue to work towards increasing our capacity to recycle and re-use water."
Developed by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council, the reduction in potable water consumption could be up to 94 per cent for the Peregian Springs development.
"This project demonstrates the Australian Government's commitment to encouraging and investing in innovation to secure urban water supplies. Furthermore, it is bringing together local communities and all levels of government to work together to achieve key environmental benefits and water security for current and future generations," Dr Kelly said.
Securing a sustainable and safe water supply for all Australians is a key priority for the Australian Government which has committed $1.5 billion for new urban water investment for our towns and cities. This funding is just one initiative under the Australian Government's $12.9 billion Water for the Future initiative.
