$150 million Southern Storage Dam strengthens Eurobodalla’s water security
A landmark investment in Eurobodalla’s water future has been delivered, with the completion of the Southern Storage Facility dam strengthening drought resilience and improving water security for the region for decades to come.
Jointly funded by the Albanese Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, the New South Wales Government and Eurobodalla Shire Council, the $150 million project includes the new Tuross River pump station and a new 3,000 megalitre (ML) storage dam located near Bodalla.
During periods of high river flows, water is pumped from the Tuross River and stored in the new dam for use when supplies are under pressure.
The water will support the region’s existing supply system for consumption and productive use and will deliver an additional 581 ML of water downstream for irrigation and stock watering each year.
The dam is now being filled and is expected to reach capacity by mid-2027, subject to river conditions.
Measuring 38 metres deep and 370 metres long, the facility incorporates flood management infrastructure and advanced water quality monitoring technology.
Once full, the storage facility will provide a vital backup water source during drought and periods of high demand, helping keep water flowing to homes, businesses and farms across the Eurobodalla Shire.
Key benefits include:
- enhanced water security across the Eurobodalla Shire, reducing the likelihood of water restrictions
- greater resilience during droughts and periods of high demand
- sustainably managed water supplies through selective pumping during high river flows, in accordance with the Tuross River Water Sharing Plan.
NSW Minister for Water, Rose Jackson said “This is a huge moment for Eurobodalla and a major milestone for one of the largest regional water security projects in NSW. I’m so pleased to see us delivering this infrastructure.
“At the end of the day, this project is about making sure families, businesses and farmers have access to reliable water when they need it most.
“It is a significant investment in the region’s future and a clear example of how we’re setting up communities for success in the face of a changing climate.”
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain said “The Albanese Government is helping secure the future of the Eurobodalla region through this investment in water security for the region.
“I campaigned for the project as Member for Eden-Monaro and prior to that as Deputy Chair of the Canberra Region Joint Organisation.
“The new dam will provide better water security for our region for many decades to come, particularly in times of drought and bushfires.”
NSW Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said “This is a significant milestone for the Eurobodalla and a major investment in the future of our region.
“For farmers, businesses and industries, water security means greater certainty and greater control in the face of an element we can’t control — the weather.
“By storing water when it is available, this project will provide greater resilience through drought and periods of high demand, helping give our local economy the confidence to plan, invest and grow.
“This is an important investment in the Eurobodalla’s future, and one that will benefit our community for generations to come.”
Eurobodalla Shire Council Mayor, Mathew Hatcher, said “Completing the dam wall is a huge achievement for Eurobodalla. This project will give our community the water security we need to thrive, even during tough droughts.
“It’s an investment in our future and a big win for residents and businesses across the shire.”
Find out more at www.nationalwatergrid.gov.au/projects/eurobodalla-southern-storage