Albany wastewater network upgraded as part of Cook Government investment in regional infrastructure

 
Installing the new wastewater pipeline

• Upgrades to Albany's wastewater network complete
• Helps protect Oyster Harbour aquaculture from overflow risk
• Staged approach used to minimise community disruption
• Part of $49.3 million Cook Government investment in regional wastewater projects

A $17.2 million project to upgrade Albany's wastewater network ensure the region has reliable wastewater services is now complete.

The major refurbishment was carried out as part of the Cook Government's commitment to enhancing regional infrastructure and included an $8.6 million injection from the Royalties for Regions Program.

Water Corporation replaced almost four kilometres of wastewater main along Ulster and Lower King roads, with a further 300 metres installed near the intersection of North and Ulster roads. 

The mains help convey wastewater from household sinks, showers, and toilets to the Albany Water Resource Recovery Facility where it is treated and used to irrigate a nearby tree farm.

Water Corporation worked closely with the City of Albany during the project, which was completed in seven individual stages to minimise disruption as much as possible.

The completed upgrades will also help to reduce the risk of leaks and bursts affecting the nearby Yakamia Creek which flows into Oyster Harbour - an important aquaculture area where Albany Rock Oysters are harvested. 

It is one of two areas which form the Albany Aquaculture Development Zone which, when at full capacity, is expected to produce around 1,500 tonnes of shellfish worth an estimated $30 million per year and create over 200 direct jobs.

The Western Australian Government invested $49.3 million on regional wastewater projects during the 2024-25 financial year.

Comments attributed to Water Minister Don Punch:

"We don't often think about the water and wastewater infrastructure under our streets, but maintaining these networks takes a lot of work to ensure services stay reliable.

"Of course, leaks and bursts cannot be stopped entirely, but by investing appropriately in upgrades and renewals we are better able to guard against incidents.  

"That is especially important at Yakamia Creek, which flows into Oyster Harbour and is so important to local aquaculture operators."

Comments attributed to Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis:

"This project is an excellent example of collaboration among government agencies to deliver an outcome that not only maintains reliable wastewater services but also supports Albany's thriving shellfish industry. 

"The Cook Government has a proud track record of investing in aquaculture on WA's south coast, and it's pleasing that this project will afford the industry greater protection."

Comments attributed to Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:

"As the population in the Great Southern region continues to grow, it is important to provide, as well as maintain, reliable and sustainable services to residents and businesses.

"Oyster Harbour is also an important aquaculture area and taking steps to help protect this burgeoning industry is vital for economic growth in the region."