Lower Murray Reclaimed Irrigation Area Project

Improving water deliverability and accessibility in the Lower Murray Reclaimed Irrigation Area

Water license holders between Mannum and Wellington are invited to express their interest for funding to upgrade off-farm irrigation infrastructure with the aim of improving water security.

The National Water Grid Connections Pathway Program has provided more than $3 million of funding to undertake works such as the upgrade or installation of siphons, sluices, pumps, motors and flow metering devices that provide increased flexibility to operate under varying river levels.

Open to irrigators in the Lower Murray Reclaimed Irrigation Area (LMRIA), upgrades funded through this project need to contribute to the following outcomes:

Enable more reliable water deliverability for irrigation when River Murray water levels are low
Provide opportunities to generate on-farm water savings through irrigation efficiencies
Invest in water delivery infrastructure that will contribute to the on-going sustainability and resilience of the LMRIA
Engage local contractors
Improve operational flexibility in the Lower Lakes to manage during times of low water levels
Manage the risks from acid sulphate soils to River Murray water quality by enabling water to be delivered to the LMRIA under varying river levels
Improve productivity through automating water delivery systems and reducing labour requirements.

How much can I apply for?

There is no minimum or maximum level of funding per project, but all project costs must be substantiated by a formal quotation.

While there is no requirement to make co-contributions, all applicants are encouraged to consider the opportunity to co-invest where it will add value to delivered outcomes.

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the project officer (see below) to discuss the eligibility of their intended project.

Who is eligible to apply for funding?

Participants must meet the following criteria:

A current, Class 8 Environmental Land management Allocation (ELMA) water license holder.

How can I apply?

License holders located in the LMRIA should complete an online Expression of Interest form, outlining their proposed infrastructure works and how it aligns with the projects aims and intended outcomes.

Expression of interest forms should be submitted by the close of business on 31 March 2023 and the deadline for project works to be completed is currently October 2023 with the possibility of an extension due to the high river levels.