The effective provision of urban water supply and wastewater services is an important element of Local Government responsibility. Water security is considered essential for any economic growth in the Far North Queensland (FNQ) region. Whilst our region has significant rainfall, our ability to store water for urban use is reaching (or in some cases reached) capacity which will inhibit growth into the future.

The experience within the industry suggests that a collaborative approach can provide significant benefits both directly (through skill sharing and improved economies of scale) and indirectly (via proactive and consistent engagement with State Government agencies and other stakeholders).

In 2014, the FNQROC Board directed the FNQ Water Alliance Technical Committee to continue the collaborative efforts and to improve the four keys areas of:

1. Strategic Asset Management
2. Regional Demand and Supply Assessment
3. Legislative Requirements (DWQMS and EMS)
4. Full cost pricing

To achieve the Board objectives members will work together to:

• Share information about programmes and projects in participating local governments to ensure timely awareness of emerging issues and opportunities
• Identify, create and pursue opportunities for cross local government (and other agencies and industry) alignment and coordination in service delivery
• Provision of timely and comprehensive advice to participating local governments.
• Enhance management and operational capacity of local governments
• Promote and support professional development among staff within the region
• Provide and lead the FNQROC on policy and procedures for urban water supplies

General meetings are held quarterly comprising of members of FNQROC and including representatives from Qld Water, LGAQ, Dept of Energy and Water Supply.

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FNQROC Water Alliance Meeting Packs

FNQ Water Alliance Documentation

Regional Biosolids Sub-Committee 

Biosolids are nutrient-rich organic material which is the by-product of the wastewater treatment process. The biosolids produced by participating member councils are currently beneficially reused via land application but changes to the current regulatory framework relating to the presence of emerging contaminants means this may soon no longer be a viable option. In response to the rapidly changing regulatory position, a Regional Biosolids Sub-Committee has been endorsed by the FNQ Water Alliance to develop a Regional Biosolids Strategy for 2024 – 2034.

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