Early works to get underway on Paradise Dam Improvement Project

The Paradise Dam Improvement Project in Queensland is moving forward as the Crisafulli Government pushes for early works to commence. This is a decisive step to secure water security as well as regional prosperity in the Wide Bay region. 

Early works will include construction of a temporary accommodation village, two concrete batch plants as well as the establishment of support facilities and site preparation. 

These works will pave the way for major construction activities on the new dam wall, ensuring that the project stays on track. This also aligns with the rigorous environmental and community consultation processes facilitated by the Coordinator-General. 

“The Crisafulli Government takes water security in our regions seriously, which is why we are fixing Labor’s disaster at Paradise Dam to safeguard water supply for the Wide Bay region. 

“Today’s announcement is a significant step in the right direction to deliver a new dam wall, which will support jobs, safeguard Bundaberg’s $2 billion agricultural industry, and benefit the community for generations to come,” Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrid Bleijie said. 

“Water is at the heart of every thriving community, and these early works on Paradise Dam will be a vital step in ensuring Bundaberg has the secure and reliable water supply it needs now and into the future. 

“This project reflects the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to investing in the critical infrastructure that lasts for future generations,” Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said. 

Other works that are progressing include road upgrades to improve community safety and cater for increased traffic movements to and from the dam, and geotechnical and quarry investigations 

The detailed business case for the Paradise Dam Improvement Project is expected to be delivered to the State Government by early 2026. 

The Paradise Dam project will help address safety concerns following an independent review, with a clear focus on ensuring the new dam wall’s structural integrity as well as its capacity to meet the demands of a growing population and changing climate. 

Sunwater is currently progressing the business case for the new dam wall. Project costs and timeframes will be confirmed as part of this process. 

CPB Contractors and Georgiou Group have been appointed construction partners, and GHD is the ongoing design partner for the project. 

“By fostering strong partnerships between government agencies, stakeholders, and the community, we are ensuring the Paradise Dam Improvement Project meets the highest standard of safety, environmental responsibility, and community benefit,” Queensland’s Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan said. 

“Water security is a key priority for Callide and rebuilding Paradise Dam is a priority for the Crisafulli Government. 

“Paradise Dam is critical to safe and reliable water supply for our region and rebuilding it will fix Labor’s failures,” Member for Callide Bryson Head said. 

“I’ve seen firsthand how part Labor governments have neglected Paradise Dam, driving up water prices right when families are already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. 

“The Crisafulli Government is working with growers, farmers and irrigators to ensure water security for our Burnett region and local industries,” Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Sunwater (1, 2); ABC News; North Burnett Regional Council