Queensland Budget Allocates $3.4 Million to Advance Scenic Rim Irrigation Project

Brisbane, Australia — The Queensland Government has committed $3.4 million in the 2026–27 State Budget to develop a detailed business case for the Water for Warrill Irrigation Project, a key initiative aimed at improving water security for farmers in the Scenic Rim.

The funding will support detailed planning to assess long-term options for delivering a more secure and reliable water supply for agricultural producers across the Warrill and Fassifern valleys. The project is expected to strengthen regional farming, improve productivity, and provide greater certainty for future investment.

Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the funding delivers on the government’s election commitment to improve water security in one of Queensland’s most productive agricultural regions.

“The Scenic Rim is a vital part of Queensland’s food bowl, and this investment will help identify practical solutions for a more reliable water supply to support the region’s future,” Minister Leahy said.

The government said the business case will build on previous feasibility studies and examine options to address long-standing water supply constraints while supporting sustainable agricultural growth and regional economic development.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the investment would provide the planning needed to improve long-term water reliability for irrigated agriculture.

“This funding is about giving producers the confidence to invest, expand productivity and strengthen one of Queensland’s important farming regions,” he said.

According to the Queensland Government, the project forms part of its broader Watertight Water Security Plan, which aims to improve water security, support food production, and boost investment across regional Queensland. The government also said the initiative contributes to its target of increasing Queensland’s primary production to $30 billion by 2030.

The allocation is for the preparation of a detailed business case and does not represent approval or funding for construction of the irrigation project.

Sources- Queensland Government – Ministerial Statement on the 2026–27 State Budget and Water for Warrill Irrigation Project.