CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON NEW GOLD COAST WATER RESEARCH FACILITY

Construction began today on what could be one of Australia’s leading water research facilities.

Queensland’s Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace today attended the construction commencement ceremony for the Queensland Smart Water Research Facility at Griffith University’s Gold Coast Campus.

He was accompanied by the Member for Southport, Peter Lawlor, and the Member for Broadwater, Peta-Kaye Croft.

Minister Wallace said that, when finished early next year, the Smart Water Research Facility would establish the Gold Coast as a leader in water resources research.

"Water management is likely to be one of the most significant issues of this century and this new Gold Coast facility will be leading the way in research in this area," Mr Wallace said.

The Bligh Government contributed $10 million from the Smart State Innovation Building Fund to support the construction of the facility.

Member for Southport, Peter Lawlor, said: "As a Government we understand the importance of facilities such as this one to the long term future for water quality and management in Queensland."

Member for Broadwater, Peta-Kaye Croft, said: "I am confident that the facility will attract other innovative water research bodies and water businesses to set up on the Gold Coast, so that the Gold Coast becomes a water expertise hub."

This first class Queensland facility will enhance research undertaken by scientists and students into vital areas such as sustainable water supplies, alternative water sources and water quality.

It will work on increasing community confidence in the use of alternative water sources.

The facility's research program will bring together experts from Griffith and other research institutions, water supply authorities and water technology companies.

The facility will include labs, distillation rooms and a social science resource centre.

There also will be outdoor facilities such as wastewater and recycled water pipes and constructed wetlands.