Western Downs Regional Council is advocating for strategic investment in long-term new bulk water to unlock the full potential of our region and support the industries that feed, clothe, and power the nation.
We know that water is essential - not just for agriculture, but for energy, industry, and liveability. That’s why Council is calling for Government support to secure the water future of the Western Downs and ensure our region continues to thrive.
Why Water Matters
The Western Downs is a region that punches well above its weight. Despite representing just 0.6% of Queensland’s population, we contribute 1.3% of Queensland’s Gross State Product and 5.8% of the state’s Gross Agricultural Product. We are 'The Energy Capital of Queensland', powering the homes and businesses of over 2 million Aussies every single day.
We’re also home to the second most productive agricultural sector in Queensland, with 42% of the nation’s feedlot capacity within 200km of the Dalby Regional Saleyards, innovative manufacturers, and thousands of other businesses and organisations that support our growing economy and vibrant communities.
With over $7.5 billion of projects across a wide variety of industries in the region's development pipeline, and projected population growth of approximately 7% over the next two decades, the Western Downs is a region of enormous opportunity.
However, to fully realise this potential, keep our economy growing strong, and support the 35,000 people who call the Western Downs home, we need a new bulk water supply that our industries and communities can depend on for generations to come.
The Current Water Forecast
The April 2025 Create Advisory 'Water in the Western Downs' Base Case Report(PDF, 4MB) paints a striking picture of immense opportunity threatened by a lack of water security. Over the next 30 years, water demand across all sectors is projected to grow significantly. Agricultural use is expected to rise by 9%, while industrial demand is forecast to more than double - an increase of 110%.
Urban growth is also driving pressure on Council's water network and supply, with town water demand set to increase by 20%. Yet, some smaller communities in the Western Downs are already at capacity, unable to support further population growth without access to new bulk water.
While the region holds 400,000ML/a in water entitlements on paper, actual yield is estimated at less than 244,000ML/a. With no unallocated surface water and limited, costly-to-access groundwater, the need for new bulk water is critical to unlocking the region’s future.
What This Means for Our Region
Future Growth: The Queensland Government’s 2024 Regional Water Assessment forecasts a 12.7% increase in water demand by 2051, including a 110% rise in industrial use. Our region is ready to grow, but we need the water and infrastructure to match.
Development Pipeline: The Western Downs has 152 projects in the pipeline - 46 with significant water needs - across renewables, intensive agriculture, resources, and bioenergy. These projects alone represent more than $30 billion in potential investment, 2,700 construction jobs and 790 permanent jobs. Without secure water, the viability of these projects is at risk.
Urban Liveability: The Regional Australia Institute estimates that 1 in 5 city households is considering relocating regionally. With thriving, active communities, a strong and diverse economy, and enviable liveability, we’re well placed to welcome new residents - but some towns are already facing constraints on residential development due to limited urban water supply.
Council’s Advocacy
We’re calling for:
- Visionary Federal investment in long-term bulk water infrastructure
- New supply options to support future growth and development
- A secure water future that enables the Western Downs to reach its full potential