Projects announced under cost-shared Disaster Ready Fund

HIGH-voltage systems at Eppalock Pump station will be elevated and ten flood-prone sewer stations in Rochester are due to be retrofitted after a $10.22 million funding commitment via the State and Federal Governments’ cost-shared Disaster Ready Fund (DRF).

Works are expected to begin in 2026 and are being led by Coliban Water in partnership with Central Highlands Water.

The works are estimated to take a prolonged five years to complete.

The Federal Government’s Special Envoy for Climate Adaption and Resilience Kate Thwaites said the two projects will make a real difference for local communities, helping ensure people, businesses and emergency services are better equipped to manage future disasters.

“By supporting Central Victorian communities – home to some of the state’s finest natural spaces and produce growers, we’re strengthening resilience where it matters most,” she said.

“The DRF is helping communities across Australia prepare for the increasing challenges of more frequent and intense disasters.

“This funding is practical and what’s needed to help Coliban Water to have the infrastructure it needs to flood-proof essential water and wastewater assets, protecting services for over 200,000 people, minimising flood recovery costs, and improving regional preparedness,” Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters continued.

“The (Federal) Government understands that by investing in ongoing disaster mitigation, we can proactively deliver meaningful projects that curb the devastating impact of floods, fires and other types of disasters rather than just react to events.”

Further announcements about projects financed under the Disaster Ready Fund are expected to be made shortly.