The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have announced that expressions of interest are now open for the $24 million Great Barrier Reef Urban Technology and Innovation Fund, a joint initiative with each government contributing $12 million. The program aims to reduce nutrient and sediment pollution from urban areas entering the Great Barrier Reef.
The fund will provide grants of up to $4 million through the Wastewater Grant Program to support the testing and commercialisation of innovative wastewater treatment solutions in Great Barrier Reef catchments. Smaller grants of up to $200,000 will also be available to help expand the use of proven wastewater technologies.
A Stormwater Innovation Challenge will also invite councils, industry groups, researchers, urban utilities and innovators to develop practical solutions for reducing pollutants in stormwater, with support available for projects from trial stages through to commercialisation.
Government representatives highlighted the importance of improving urban water quality to protect the Great Barrier Reef, support the environment, and safeguard the estimated 77,000 jobs linked to the Reef. The initiative forms part of broader government investment efforts aimed at protecting the long-term health and sustainability of the Reef.
Expressions of interest are now being called. More information on the Great Barrier Reef Urban Technology and Innovation Fund is available here.
Read full Media Statement here: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/105329
