Recycled water network expansion project

• Project typeRecycled water
• Project value$7.3 million
• Project scheduleStage 2: Carrara-Bundall recycled water supply zone – late 2026

We are upgrading and expanding our recycled water network. This will help to maintain and enhance green spaces. The expansion will support and develop local industry, underpinning the future of the region.

This citywide expansion of the recycled water network provides a climate-resilient, affordable and fit-for-purpose recycled water supply.

The project is divided into numerous network supply areas and will be delivered in stages across the city.

Opportunities and benefits to the community

The project will provide Class A recycled water for customers identified in the current Queensland Health Guideline for low-exposure recycled water schemes to use as:

• sporting field irrigation
• golf course irrigation
• open-space irrigation
• streetscape irrigation
• cooling towers and industrial use (may need further on-lot treatment)
• selected agricultural use.

Benefits:

• provide a climate-resilient, affordable, reliable and fit-for-purpose non-potable water supply
• enhance liveability by greening the city's golf courses, sporting facilities, schools, parks and gardens
• support and grow local industry, such as hospitals (HVAC), shopping centres (HVAC), industry, nurseries and garden centres, and commercial properties
• facilitate agricultural opportunities.

Stage 1 Carrara recycled water supply zone – completed

Stage 1 of the project is now complete, with 18 new fixed site customers connected in the Merrimac, Carrara and Nerang areas. This phase also included additional connections in the Sanctuary Cove–Hope Island area, with new customers such as the Gold Coast Sports Precinct and People First Stadium. As part of Stage 1, a new recycled water treatment plant was constructed within the Merrimac Sewage Treatment Plant site, and 11 kilometres of pipeline were added to the network.

Stage 2 – commenced

Concept design for Stage 2 is now complete, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026. This stage will connect new customers — including schools, parks, body corporates and golf courses — in the Carrara, Ashmore and Bundall areas. Planned connections include the Gold Coast Botanic Gardens, the Gold Coast Turf Club and HOTA. Stage 2 will further extend economic benefits to customers and support water sustainability by saving up to 500,000 litres of drinking water each day.

Updates on future stages will be provided as the project progresses.