WATER SECURITY

444 The Hon. G.M. GUNN (Stuart) (10 February 2009). What action will be taken to rectify the poor quality of water supplied to the mid-north town of Terowie and when will this occur?

The Hon. K.A. MAYWALD (Chaffey—Minister for the River Murray, Minister for Water Security): The possibility of providing an alternate water supply to Terowie has been previously investigated. The 15km pipeline required to significantly improve the water supply to existing customers in Terowie would need to be funded in accordance with the principles of the South Australian Government's Mains Extension policy. Initial estimates indicate that about $2,500,000 (or $100,000 per connection) of additional funding would be required over and above SA Water's normal contribution to a scheme of this nature.

The advice issued to the residents of Terowie regarding the non-potable supply was issued in conjunction with the Department of Health. Recent advice provided by the Department of Health is that the latest water quality results show no evidence that the water is unsatisfactory on health grounds for secondary uses such as bathing and laundry.

SA Water has informed me that they are aware of the aesthetic water quality issues associated with the water supply in Terowie and have commenced carting from Peterborough earlier than normal in order to provide some improvement to the water supply. However the water being delivered to customers in Terowie remains non-potable.