A new water treatment plant for Baradine has progressed from just an idea, as more funding moves the town closer to a more secure water future. 

An additional $375 000 to the project from the NSW Safe and Secure Water Program will help fund its concept design. 

Nationals Duty MLC for Barwon Scott Barret said the existing infrastructure is ageing and is well past its use-by-date. 

“The new plant will be designed to support future population growth and water demands which increase when the town hosts visitors for major events,” Mr Barrett said. 

“Getting the design right is crucial in ensuring the plant is fit for purpose and is big enough to support long-term water supply,” he said. 



Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor Ambrose Doolan said moving towards the final product is an exciting result for the town. 

“While we’re still at the start of the journey we’re making great progress and I look forward to the day that we can deliver this new water infrastructure which will supply Baradine with high quality, clean drinking water for years to come,” Cr Doolan said. 

The Warrumbungle Shire Council is also contributing $125,000 towards the design process. 

Water security has been at the forefront of the Baradine community for some time, with the artesian bore hold decommissioned and capped in 2020 to protect water supply. 

In 2021, a new water main was installed to minimise supply interruptions and improve water supply, after tree roots near the main pipeline caused multiple breakages and disruptions. 

Minister for Water Kevin Anderson said that Baradine is only one step towards providing better access to safer and more secure water in every corner of NSW.

“If we want a sustainable water future we must support critical water infrastructure projects like the new Baradine water treatment at every stage of delivery,” Mr Anderson said. 

The concept is expected to be finished later this year and tenders for the construction of the new plant will be called for in early 2023.