Friday, 3 July 2026
Labor is supporting a new stormwater harvesting project to secure water for Altona sports fields to ensure a green future for this community space.
Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne visited Cherry Creek today to announce $950,000 of funding to boost water security and reduce reliance on drinking water.
Co-funded by Greater Western Water and in partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council, the stormwater harvesting project will capture, treat and reuse up to 48 million litres of stormwater each year.
It provides a reliable water supply to irrigate 9.9 hectares of Altona community sports grounds.
Once complete, the scheme will reduce the use of valuable drinking water and save around $150,000 per year in water cost as well as reducing pollutants entering Cherry Lake and Port Phillip Bay.
Emissions will also be cut by an estimated 106 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.
The project includes community and Traditional Owner engagement, detailed design, water quality testing, irrigation upgrades, and ongoing arrangements to ensure safe and effective operation.
Construction is expected to follow detailed design and approvals, with a 12-month commissioning period before the system becomes fully operational.
This is part of the government’s $24 million in new Integrated Water Management (IWM) grants to co-fund projects across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria with local councils and water corporations.
Applications are currently being assessed for IWM co-funding of works in regional Victoria.
Water is our most precious resource, which is why Labor is making every drop count by helping projects that reduce pressure on drinking water supplies and protect local waterways.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Harriet Shing
“We’re turning stormwater into a valuable resource – keeping community sports grounds green while saving precious drinking water.”
“Water security is about planning for the future, and this investment will deliver lasting benefits for our communities and our environment.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
“Only Labor is investing in the water infrastructure that secures our future, supports local communities and makes every drop count.”
“This is another step forward to a more climate-resilient future for Hobsons Bay and ensure a green future for this important community space.”
ENDS.
Media Contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
