The Future Water Project 2060 identifies new water supply sources to ensure long-term water supply security for the region. This project builds on decades of extensive investigation to identify potential source options and inform the selection of a preferred long-term strategy.

A secure water supply is critical to ensure the regional community’s health and quality of life as well as a sustainable environment and continued economic prosperity. Rous has a duty to ensure there is enough water available to meet the long-term needs of the Ballina Shire, Byron Shire, Lismore City and Richmond Valley Councils and their communities.

Download the plan (PDF)

Project overview

Rous is implementing the Future Water Project to ensure the Northern Rivers has a secure and resilient water supply that will meet the community’s needs to 2060 and beyond.

three stage future water project 2060 october 2022 - Rous County Council

Water security means having a sustainable and reliable supply of safe drinking water that supports people’s health, livelihoods and the development of the region. Water security is a strong focus for Rous, as a growing population and a changing climate is placing pressure on our existing water sources.

Rous has a long history of supplying high-quality drinking water to the Northern Rivers, and as we look ahead, we build on a strong record of successfully planning and delivering a reliable water supply to the community.

Project stages

There are three stages for this project. Stage one (2021-2025), stage two (2026-2029), Stage three (2030-2060). It includes more water saving initiatives and an expanded number of water supply sources.

Stages one and two

In stages one and two we are focused on enhancing our existing groundwater schemes at Alstonville and Woodburn. A new supply scheme at Alstonville will include water from the recently investigated sub-aquifer, the Clarence Moreton Basin, as well as surface water from Marom Creek.

At the same time, we are:

furthering investigations into groundwater from the Brunswick Coastal Sands source
transforming Woodburn’s groundwater resources into a regional drought emergency supply
implementing new and innovative water conservation measures to better manage regional demand.

Stage three

To meet the challenge of a growing population and a changing climate we are taking a holistic approach to our third-stage planning.

An adaptable supply of water may involve one or a combination of different options including water saving measures, groundwater, surface water, purified recycled water and desalination. These potential future water sources are being investigated now to determine their viability; each option presents a complex mix of economic, environmental, social and cultural impacts that need to be considered, assessed and balanced. Exploring all the options will put us in the best position to make well-informed decisions and develop a robust water supply scheme for the future.

Read our latest project update (PDF)

Alstonville plateau water supply scheme

The new scheme is being designed to include groundwater from two different aquifers and surface water from Marom Creek. Read more for project updates.