The Federal and NT governments have pledged $27 million to tackle unsafe drinking water issues. 

The funding is designed to alleviate the dire water security situation that has plagued places like Yuendumu and Milingimbi, with residents facing unsettling health risks due to inadequate access to clean drinking water.

The joint initiative has earmarked a total of $26.7 million for the two communities, Yuendumu located in Central Australia and Milingimbi nestled in East Arnhem Land. 

This funding is geared toward critical infrastructure projects, and it comes as part of a larger $150 million commitment made by the federal government earlier this year. 

The overarching goal is to bolster water infrastructure in remote areas, where alarming levels of uranium, arsenic, and E Coli have been detected in the water supply.

Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, alongside NT counterpart Lauren Moss, expressed deep concern over the situation. 

In a shared statement, they said that it is “unacceptable” for Australian citizens to lack reliable access to safe drinking water in this day and age, and that this issue not only undermines health but also holds individuals back in various aspects of their lives.

Yuendumu's allotment of $15 million will go towards replacing ageing water service lines, bores, and mains, while Milingimbi is set to receive $11 million for the creation of new bores and upgrades at three key locations. 

Yinigya Guyula, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the East Arnhem Land electorate of Mulka, applauded the investment, highlighting its potential to transform living conditions in Milingimbi. 

He revealed that new bores could facilitate long-awaited housing developments, thereby addressing overcrowding that has long been a concern. 

Additionally, water security is directly tied to critical services, like healthcare, as was evident when plans for a dialysis treatment facility were shelved due to unreliable water supply.