Thursday, 28 August 2025

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:24): We know that in the future our climate will have more extremes, from floods to bushfires and of course drought. Drought does not just put pressure on our farmers but increases pressure on our precious drinking water supplies. Residents of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs know this all too well, having experienced the driest summer and autumn in 30 years. Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs remain on stage 2 water restrictions. That is why the $25 million Daylesford water supply pipeline delivered by Central Highlands Water is so important. It was a pleasure to be alongside the member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas to see this massive investment into Daylesford’s water supply firsthand. Completion of stages 1 and 2 of the project has already seen the construction of 17 kilometres of pipeline connecting Daylesford to the Goldfields superpipe. Works are now starting on upgrades to the treatment plant to boost its capacity, ensuring more high-quality water is available for households and businesses. This will support over 300 million litres of additional water to flow into the system each year. This secures more water during times of drought and low rainfall, reducing the risk of restrictions. We are taking action to ensure we have reliable, safe and affordable drinking water into the future. All Victorians have a role to play by making simple changes such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, washing with full loads and not watering gardens in the heat of the day. We can all make a difference. Every drop counts.