Western Australia commits $2.7 billion to water security in 2026-27 budget

The Cook Labor Government has announced a $2.7 billion investment in water infrastructure for the 2026-27 financial year, part of a four-year $6.4 billion capital works programme. Funding covers the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant ($606 million), a new Regional Water Source Fund ($52.9 million), and maintenance programmes, supporting water security across metropolitan Perth and regional WA.

The Cook Labor Government has announced a $2.7 billion investment in water infrastructure as part of the 2026-27 State Budget, forming part of a wider four-year capital works programme of more than $6.4 billion across Water Corporation, Aqwest, and Busselton Water, according to an official announcement. The investment supports local jobs, economic growth, and water security across metropolitan Perth and regional Western Australia.

Funding allocations include $64.1 million to support existing and future water sources for the Integrated Water Supply Scheme, which provides drinking water to more than 2.5 million people. A Regional Water Source Fund with $52.9 million will support water source planning and investment in regional areas. In the Pilbara, $606 million will support construction of the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant, alongside $11.8 million for upgrades to the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme and $23.8 million to investigate supply options for Port Hedland's Boodarie Strategic Industrial Area.

This development matters for Western Australia's water infrastructure sector, where population growth and climate variability are driving investment in diversified water sources. The budget also includes $166.7 million over two years for additional planned maintenance across the state to reduce leaks and bursts, and $9.4 million for priority works on water drainage bridges in the South West.

For the water industry, the investment creates opportunities for construction contractors, engineering firms, and equipment suppliers. Stakeholders including residential consumers, industrial users, and regional communities stand to benefit from improved water security and reduced supply interruptions.