Sykes supports recycled water for Melbourne

Compulsory increased usage of recycled water in Melbourne proposed by a Liberal-National Coalition Bill introduced in Parliament today has been welcomed by Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes.

Dr Sykes said, “The Bill initiated by Peter Hall, Nationals Member for Eastern Region provides a cost effective, environmentally friendly solution to Melbourne’s water needs.

“The operation of the Bill is based on the Government’s Mandatory Renewable Energy Legislation.

“The Bill sets targets for the use of recycled water, including storm water, in lieu of potable water by the major Melbourne water retailers and the 1,500 or so large users of water.

“Importantly, the Bill does not require Melburnians to drink recycled water but for recycled water to replace potable water currently used in parks and gardens, industry and other situations which don’t involve human consumption of the water.

Dr Sykes concluded, “This Bill provides a common sense alternative to the ludicrous proposal to pipe water from dry Northern Victorian to Melbourne.

“I challenge the Government to allow the Bill to be debated in the Parliament.”