Livingstone Brings Water into Focus During National Water Week
Published on 21 October 2025
This week, as Australians celebrate National Water Week 2025 (October 20–26) with the theme “Bring Water into Focus”, Livingstone Shire Council is highlighting the importance of proactive water planning for the future of their region.
Mayor Adam Belot said National Water Week reminds us that water is essential to our daily lives, our economy, and our environment.
"This week, we’re proud to bring water into focus for our region by securing a long-term, reliable water supply that will support our growth and prosperity for decades to come,” Mayor Belot said.
Livingstone Shire Council is finalising a long-term water supply agreement with Sunwater, securing up to 6,500 megalitres of raw water from Rookwood Weir annually.
"This is about more than just water," Mayor Belot said.
"It’s about foresight, planning, and ensuring Livingstone Shire has the infrastructure it needs as one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions.
"Over a decade ago, the decision was made to relinquish the Sandy Creek allocation and secure 4,000 ML from Rookwood Weir for just $1.
“Purchasing a water allocation of this scale in the open market today would be upwards of 12 million dollars!
“It is this type of planning that is needed now as we position ourselves to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s growth.”
“The Sunwater agreement not only delivers long-term price stability for the community, but it also gives Livingstone ownership of the water asset in perpetuity, meaning the benefits stay in the hands of our residents forever," Mayor Belot said.
"We know affordability matters," he continued. "While the cost for the water allocation has now been secured with Sunwater, the remaining costs to ratepayers, which relate to the treatment and delivery of the water, are yet to be finalised.
“These costs will form the basis of ongoing and collaborative discussions with Rockhampton Regional Council to ensure a fair and sustainable outcome for our community.
“We are expecting water bills to increase by CPI next year but ultimately, the final price will depend on the agreement with Rockhampton for the treatment of our water.”
Mayor Belot said securing a reliable water supply is a cornerstone of strategic planning under Blueprint Livingstone.
"It enables us to accommodate our growing population, attract investment, and ensure our community remains a vibrant and sustainable place to live, work, and play,” he said.
"By bringing water into focus this National Water Week, we’re showing our community that smart, long-term planning delivers real benefits—stable prices, secure supply, perpetual ownership, and the capacity to support our future growth."
For more information on the Blueprint Livingstone Initiative visit: https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/blueprint-livingstone
For information on the Water for Our Future Initiative visit: https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/water-for-our-future
For other water related information please visit: https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/Living-Here/My-Property/Water-Meters-and-Billing/Water-Treatment-and-Supply