Water package launches jobs, smart water use across city

The $10 million Queensland Government funded Water Smart Package launched today will lead the biggest water wise campaign in Townsville’s history, Mayor Jenny Hill said.

“Water Smart will boost the local economy and local jobs and deliver water wise products and services to thousands of households in the city,” Cr Hill said.

“The reach of this program will go beyond similar packages in Australia by making it accessible to everyone, including pensioners and low-income households.

“Townsville suppliers have been brought on board to ensure there is an economic benefit to support local business and local jobs.

“They are already gearing up with more staff to handle the additional business this package will generate.”

Launching the package with Queensland Minister for Communities and Minister for Disabilities and Seniors, and Member for Townsville Coralee O’Rourke on the Strand today, Cr Hill said the Water Smart Package was part of Townsville’s 3-Point Water Security Solution along with the water pipeline and water recycling projects.

“It’s important to acknowledge that the Queensland Government’s funding for Stage 1 of the water pipeline and the Water Smart Package has been critical in locking in Townsville’s long-term water security for our community and we are extremely grateful.”

“The 3-point solution ensures that not only do we have a reliable supply of water from the Burdekin, we will also be using water far more efficiently.”

Mrs O’Rourke congratulated Townsville City Council on the launch of the Water Smart Package and emphasised the importance of the Townsville community getting on board and supporting the cause.

“This is proof of the Queensland Government’s commitment to water security and longevity in Townsville,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“The Water Smart Package will change the way people look at their water use and with the help of our future leaders, the younger generation that are here today, the message will continue to be spread.”

“I’d urge all Townsville residents to get involved, be water wise and water smart and contribute to water security in Townsville for years and decades to come.”

The Water Smart Package will provide rebates of up to $500 to homeowners and renters and up to $1000 for body corporates for the purchase of water smart products.

A total of 10 local companies were selected from a tendering process to provide products and services including low-flow sprinklers, tap timers, native plants, compost bins, irrigation optimisation and lawn care packages.

Townsville Water and Waste Committee chairman Cr Russ Cook encouraged all households to register for the Water Smart Package.

“The dedicated web site went live today and it’s important people register and make their applications as soon as they can,” Cr Cook said.

“It is an extensive package, but people should get in early as the program runs until the funding is fully taken up.

“The package offers both cash and no-cash outlay options so that pensioners and low-income households also have access to the rebates.

“The Council will also be rolling out an extensive community awareness and education campaign over the next 12 months to support the package.

“This will include face to face opportunities with staff at shopping centres, markets and sporting events to encourage and assist people to apply.”

Local supplier Daniel Smith, owner of Atomic Irrigation Services, is already employing more staff to meet the increased demand for products and services.

“My business has been running for nine years and while we’ve been steadily growing, we’ve noticed a big increase in interest in irrigation and water saving products as a result of the Water Smart Package,” Mr Smith said.

“I’m in the process of putting on more workers and we’re really excited about the additional business that will be coming in and the fact we will be helping people make improvements that will save water.”

Key points

• People can register and apply online at watersmart.townsville.qld.gov.au
• Already 4717 households and businesses have responded to early calls for registrations
• People must register first before purchasing water saving products if they are interested in the rebate package
• People can also register and receive advice at the council’s customer service centres and libraries and by calling 13 48 10.
• Rebates of up to $500 for individual households, $1000 for body corps.
• Cash and no-cash outlay options, to ensure low income households can participate.
• products and services including low-flow sprinklers, tap timers, native plants, compost bins, irrigation optimisation and lawn care packages.

10 local approved suppliers:

• Atomic Irrigation Services
• Coastal Dry Tropics Landcare Inc.
• Globe Australia
• Bedrock Landscape Supplies
• Townsville Mini Loads
• AJW Services
• Revegetation Contractors
• Addisons Mitre 10
• Professional Pump Services and Irrigation – PPS
• Project Plants Trade Centre

Water Smart Package (PDF, 157.3 KB)