Water Expert Panel 100 Day Plan and QWRAP Funding Announcement
Date: 29-Jun-2017
Minister McArdle made two key announcements at the qldwater Urban Water Innovation Forum on 27 November.
The Minister announced $130,000 in funding to support the ongoing work of the Queensland Water Regional Alliance Program (QWRAP) which is led by LGAQ and qldwater.
“QWRAP is an industry led initiative helping regional councils to improve their urban water services by working together across council boundaries,” Mr McArdle said.
Mr McArdle also released the 100 day plan from the Government’s Expert Water Panel.
“In August I announced the formation of the Water Expert Panel to assist in the implementation of the Queensland Government’s strong 30 year plan for the water sector, WaterQ,” Mr McArdle said.
“The expert panel includes some of Australia’s leading water experts including scientists, engineers, environmental planners and a futurist and is undertaking a long-term advisory role in identifying and promoting innovative solutions that meet the needs of Queensland customers.
“The panel’s 100 day plan, Smart ideas and innovations, outlines a series of recommendations to improve customer service, support emerging technologies and improve the skills of workers.
“The funding for QWRAP will help deliver some of the 100 day plan’s recommendations, including a state-wide profile of water and energy consumption for regional and remote communities; the exploration of mechanisms to guide future investment and skills development.”
“The grant to QWRAP reaffirms the Queensland Government’s commitment to encouraging innovation and collaboration that is focused on finding real solutions to local problems.”
Rob Fearon, qldwater Director Innovation Partnerships said the new investment will be prioritised towards additional funding for QWRAP regions, a project to look at drivers affecting pricing including a review of the impact of energy costs on water provision in “off grid” communities.
“The Water Expert Panel will continue to provide advice to ensure the WaterQ strategy delivers the best outcomes for Queensland families and businesses, now and in 30 years,” Minister McArdle said.
More information on the Water Expert Panel is available here and a link to the 100 day plan is available here.
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