National Water Grid Authority

Water is one of Australia’s, and the world’s, most important resources. We all rely on water to survive – it’s crucial for our environment, economy and livelihoods.

The Australian Government is working with state and territory governments to invest in water projects that ensure the long-term viability of our communities and economy.

The National Water Grid Fund (NWGF) is the Australian Government’s infrastructure investment program to improve water access and security by delivering nationally important water infrastructure projects that unlock potential, build resilience, and promote growth and sustainability.

This includes investment in essential town water, dams, weirs, pipelines, water recycling and treatment plants and other water storage, distribution and scientific solutions.

We support robust planning and responsible investment decisions that contribute to nature positive outcomes.

The NWGF is driven by 3 key objectives:

1. provide safe and reliable water for regional and remote communities
2. generate public benefit through responsible investment in water infrastructure for productive use
3. build resilient water infrastructure that is environmentally sustainable and culturally responsive.

The Australian Government acknowledges that First Nations communities have managed land and sea Country for more than 65,000 years. It’s important we draw on this knowledge to help inform water infrastructure projects.