FARMERS have welcomed the LNP's commitment to invest $1.3 billion in new water infrastructure projects, describing the move as a "significant step forward for agriculture and the state's economy" if implemented.
AgForce water spokesman Kim Bremner said well-planned investment in water infrastructure always paid off in the long term.
Mr Bremner said he was pleased to see the LNP outline support for a series of priority projects that could benefit urban, industrial and agricultural users across regional Queensland.
"Reliable access to more water is a crucial ingredient for our agricultural sector to grow in the future and a number of these water infrastructure projects could benefit farmers," Mr Bremner said.
"The Rookwood Weir could deliver benefits for beef producers and potential opportunities for irrigated farming and feedlots in Central Queensland, but we need more information as the project develops, including the likely availability and price of water for agriculture."
Mr Bremner also welcomed the LNP's commitment to fund feasibility studies and set up the Queensland Dam Company to drive the regional Queensland water projects, some of which had been on the drawing board for decades.
"While feasibility studies are an important part of the process, we're eager to see these studies turned into concrete action on the ground as soon as possible if the projects stack up," he said.
"In addition, AgForce is calling for the establishment of a more predictable, effective and efficient process for the sustainable release of water reserves.
"We're particularly keen to see what water could be used in the Gulf river catchments for agriculture and how we can get more on-ground development happening there.
"Agriculture is one of the foundations of the Queensland economy, and can continue to be if all levels of Government support projects that help unlock the industry's full potential."
