16 June 2026
Southern Downs Regional Council has supported State Government plans to invest three million dollars on further investigations into the viability of Emu Swamp Dam.
Yesterday’s announcement centres on one of the three recommendations from the Queensland Government’s Regional Water Assessment released in August 2025.
Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the State Government’s proposal aligns with the commitment made by Council early in its term to encourage project development work in relation to the dam.
“Water security remains this Council's highest priority,” Mayor Hamilton said.
"We appreciate the Crisafulli Government's ongoing commitment to improving drought resilience for the Southern Downs region.”
Mayor Hamilton said Council's focus remained on securing sustainable and reliable water solutions for the region's communities, businesses and agricultural sector.
"Water security is critical to the future prosperity of the Southern Downs. Our region needs solutions which improve resilience, support economic growth and help communities withstand future drought conditions," Mayor Hamilton said.
"We’ll continue to work with the Queensland Government and other stakeholders to ensure the Southern Downs can meet its future water needs."
Last edited date 16 Jun 2026