The 2026-27 Budget reflects new investment in water security and environmental protection, to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the economic and lifestyle benefits of our natural environment.
Water security
The Government is making investments to secure Western Australia's water future in a drying climate.
- The Government has committed $606 million to secure water in the Pilbara through a joint venture with Rio Tinto to deliver Stages 1 and 2 of the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant.
- $57.3 million for planning and investigations into Perth's next desalination plant, with our $2.8 billion Alkimos Desalination Plant scheduled for completion in 2028.
- Water Corporation will also invest $52.9 million through its new Regional Water Source Fund in water source planning and investigation in regional WA.
Protection and restoration
- $24.7 million to continue initiatives to ensure Western Australia's biosecurity and animal disease preparedness.
- $4.5 million for the Tree Treatment Project, supporting Perth's tree canopy through the removal and pruning of trees to prevent the spread of polyphagous shot-hole borer.
- A further $8.5 million towards the Fisheries Support Package.
- $7.1 million to enhance protection of the Swan and Canning Rivers.
- $6.2 million investment in the Healthy Estuaries WA program.
The Government is helping to secure Albany's future water supply and has committed to Nanarup as the preferred area for construction of a desalination plant.