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Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Stephen Robertson

Friday, August 14, 2009

Queensland to be home to National Centre for Water Excellence

Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Minister Stephen Robertson has today welcomed the announcement by the Commonwealth to locate a National Centre of Excellence in Water Recycling in Brisbane.

“This is recognition of the excellent work Queensland has undertaken in this area,” Mr Robertson said.

Minister for Climate Change and Water Senator Penny Wong today announced Western Corridor Recycled Water Pty Ltd, which is owned by state authority Water Secure, would receive $20 million over five years to host the centre.

“The National Centre of Excellence in Water Recycling will develop and commercialise new water recycling technologies that will enable the sustainable management of this precious resource.

“The actions taken by this Government during the worst drought on record have been acknowledged by the Commonwealth today for having put us in a nation leading position.

“This centre will build on the knowledge and expertise we have built up in Queensland and will ensure Australia continues to be at the forefront of water technology into the future.

“The Western Corridor Recycled Water Project - the first scheme of its kind in Australia - provides a water supply, independent of climate, that will ensure South East Queensland’s water security in a return to drought conditions.

“The Project has already received seven international awards, which is something all Queenslanders can be proud of.

“Today is further recognition of this project and the government’s investment in this technology,” Mr Robertson said.

Western Corridor Recycled Water Pty Ltd will host the centre with strong involvement from founding partners University of Queensland, Griffith University, University of New South Wales and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), along with industry partners including Veolia Water Australia Pty Ltd and GHD Pty Ltd.

The centre is expected to begin operating before the end of the year.

Media Contact: Catherine Goldie 3225 1819