Wilcannia Weir Project Faces Delay Amid Federal Funding Standoff

The community of Wilcannia has been informed that the construction of a new weir will not proceed in the immediate future, despite decades of community advocacy. The project, which recently gained momentum, secured a $70 million commitment from the New South Wales (NSW) government. However, an additional $60 million from the federal government is required for its completion.

The federal government has stated it will not consider any funding request without a detailed business case.

Community and Stakeholder Reactions

Justin McClure, chairman of the Australian Floodplain Association and a local grazier, expressed deep disappointment, emphasizing the community's consistent communication regarding the weir's necessity.

NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson also conveyed her disappointment with the federal government's decision, acknowledging the community's long-standing efforts to secure a replacement weir. She affirmed NSW's commitment to the project, stressing the crucial need for federal financial assistance.

Local independent MP for Barwon, Roy Butler, characterized the delay as a significant setback for the community, highlighting that Wilcannia has been awaiting the weir for decades. Central Darling Shire Council chair Bob Stewart echoed this sentiment, stating the community has been waiting over 30 years.

Federal Government Stance

Federal Minister for Environment and Water, Murray Watt, declined an interview. His office issued a statement clarifying the Commonwealth Government's previous involvement. It noted a $15 million commitment in 2018 to improve Basin Plan outcomes for the Wilcannia First Nations community, with $8 million of that already provided to NSW for the proposed weir project.

The statement reiterated that a detailed business case is an essential requirement for the government to consider any increased funding requests for the Wilcannia Weir.

Justin McClure, reacting to the ongoing delays, described them as a 'cop-out,' suggesting that political factors were at play and that budgetary constraints were being used as an excuse. Attributions of responsibility for the delays have been exchanged between federal and state governments.