FAQs

The Water for Growth project is a major infrastructure program designed to upgrade and modernise Charters Towers’ water supply system. It focuses on improving reliability, increasing capacity, and supporting future residential and commercial growth.

Much of the existing water infrastructure is ageing and no longer meets current or future demand. Without upgrades, the system risks failure, reduced water quality, and limited capacity for new housing and business development.

Key upgrades include constructing a new water storage reservoir on Towers Hill, upgrading around 8 kilometres of water mains, installing a new booster pump station, and building a new Water Treatment Plant pump station.

The project has been divided into seven separate works packages. This staged approach allows Council to seek funding progressively and deliver upgrades in manageable components.

Funding has been secured for Works Packages 1 and 2, with construction starting soon. Designs and approvals for Works Packages 3 to 7 are complete, and these components are ready to proceed once funding is secured.

The project will improve water reliability, increase supply capacity, enhance water quality, and provide greater storage during emergencies. It will also support housing developments and create opportunities for business and economic growth.

Council is committed to minimising disruptions as much as possible. Some temporary impacts may occur during construction but works will be carefully managed to reduce inconvenience to residents.

The existing system cannot support additional housing developments. By increasing capacity and upgrading infrastructure, the project will enable new subdivisions and residential estates to be developed in the region.

A stronger and more reliable water network ensures the town can support new industrial and commercial development. This provides greater confidence for businesses looking to invest in Charters Towers.

Without these upgrades, there is a high risk of water supply interruptions, rising maintenance costs, limited growth opportunities, and potential regulatory issues. This could also impact Council’s reputation and service delivery. 

Council has secured $8 million in funding for Works Packages 1 and 2 through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.

Early site works are underway, including exploratory activities such as potholing at the Towers Hill Reservoir site. These works help prepare for major construction.

Construction will begin on the funded works packages, while Council continues to seek funding for the remaining stages to deliver the full Water for Growth program.