A united campaign to secure safe, clean drinking water for Narrandera is gaining momentum with local leaders calling on the NSW Labor Government to approve immediate relief measures and commit to long-term investment in the town’s water infrastructure.
Nationals Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, along with Narrandera Shire Council led by Mayor Neville Kschenka, are calling on the Minns Government to implement emergency safeguards that guarantee the delivery of safe drinking water in the short term, as well as a commitment to fund a permanent water treatment plant.
Ms Cooke said emergency measures include the deployment of a temporary treatment plant to remove iron, manganese, and other contaminates from the water supply, in addition to $2 million to enable Council to flush the town’s mains before summer.
“Access to clean water is a basic human right,” Ms Cooke said.
“The government must address Narrandera’s water quality well before summer reaches its peak, which is when residents are more likely to see discoloured water running from their taps.
“The short-term measures we’re proposing can be delivered with the stroke of a pen, and therefore I’m imploring our state’s Water Minister to not wait until Narrandera is on a boil water notice.”
Ms Cooke said emergency measures must be backed up with a commitment to fund the delivery of permanent infrastructure once Council is shovel ready.
Earlier this year, Council submitted a grant application for funding through the National Water Grid Fund 2025 to support the development of a business case and is awaiting an outcome.
Mayor Kschenka said Narrandera deserves a funding commitment, so that Council and residents can have confidence that the delivery of this critical infrastructure can proceed without further without further delay.
“It’s time for decisive action,” Mr Kschenka said.
“We need the financial backing of the NSW Government to begin construction on a permanent water treatment plant, which is essential for the wellbeing of our community.”
“In the meantime, we require additional support to ensure the quality of our drinking water over the summer season and welcome any direct investment into practical solutions.
