en.Wedoany.com Reported - The first phase construction contract for the $543 million upgrade of the Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme (GAWSS) in Western Australia has been officially awarded, which will replace 44.5 kilometers of aging Goldfields pipeline.

Perth-based Georgiou Group and the SRG Global McConnell Dowell joint venture have secured the pipeline replacement contract. Water Corporation is responsible for delivering the first phase, which includes pipeline renewal, valve upgrades, and the addition of the Binduli Reservoir.

The upgrade is expected to increase the scheme's daily water supply capacity by up to 7.2 million liters, a 10% increase, and improve water supply reliability for communities and industries in the Goldfields and Wheatbelt regions. The project is expected to support over 230 jobs, with more than $170 million allocated to Western Australian contractors and subcontractors, including at least $7 million for Indigenous businesses. The pipeline sections will be manufactured by Steel Mains in Kwinana using Pilbara iron ore, with a concrete lining from Cockburn Cement.

Construction of the additional Binduli Reservoir in Kalgoorlie-Boulder is expected to commence later this year.

Water Minister Don Punch stated that the awarding of these contracts marks another significant milestone in the Cook Labor Government's $543 million investment in the Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme, helping to secure Western Australia's water future. This investment will enhance the scheme's capacity and reliability to support future development in the Goldfields and Wheatbelt regions, while creating jobs for local businesses and residents. More than $170 million of these contracts will go to Western Australian contractors and subcontractors, including at least $7 million for Indigenous businesses, ensuring the benefits of this major infrastructure investment remain in Western Australia and contribute to a stronger, more diversified economy.