Funding Win for GWMWater

What We’ve Achieved

Grantus worked closely with GWMWater to develop a robust and strategic proposal for the Mininera Rural Pipeline Project. As this work progressed, the proposal became an important evidence base for the Victorian Government’s drought response planning. This contributed to $15 million being secured through the State’s drought support package, enabling key components of the Mininera project to move toward delivery.

In parallel, Grantus prepared and lodged a Commonwealth funding submission on behalf of GWMWater to the National Water Grid Fund. The submission seeks additional support to complete the remaining infrastructure phases. While the requested Commonwealth contribution is not being publicly disclosed, the submission provides a strong national case for co-investment.

Through coordinated engagement with both levels of government, Grantus positioned the project as a shovel ready, region critical solution to long-term water insecurity.

Funding Context

The Victorian Government’s drought package supports communities facing acute climate stress, prioritising essential infrastructure that strengthens resilience, reduces drought impacts and supports agricultural continuity.
The National Water Grid Fund focuses on strategic water projects that increase security, reliability and productive capacity across regional Australia, making the Mininera proposal a natural fit for co-investment.

Why It Matters

• Provides reliable, fit for purpose non-potable water for farms, rural households and small towns in a high need corridor.
• Reduces reliance on rainfall dependent farm dams and costly water carting.
• Enhances drought and bushfire resilience through improved system redundancy and firefighting access.
• Supports agricultural productivity and regional investment confidence.
• Improves liveability and reduces water insecurity across Mininera, Lake Bolac, Willaura, Streatham, Glenthompson and Westmere.

About the Project and Next Steps

The Mininera Rural Pipeline Project proposes around 81 km of trunk and distribution mains, pump stations, storage infrastructure, firefighting access points and solar supported energy systems. It forms a key extension of the East Grampians Rural Water Supply network and responds directly to the region’s drought impacts and bushfire vulnerabilities.

With State funding secured, GWMWater now awaits Commonwealth consideration. Subject to approval, procurement and construction phases can commence, delivering immediate improvements to water reliability for rural customers and strengthening long term climate resilience across the Western District.

Grantus’ Role

• Led development of the project proposal used by the Victorian Government to support its drought package allocations.
• Prepared and lodged a nationally competitive Commonwealth submission to the National Water Grid Fund.
• Aligned the project narrative with both State drought priorities and national water security objectives.
• Strengthened strategic, economic and climate resilience arguments using business case evidence and stakeholder insights.
• Supported GWMWater’s engagement with government partners during development.