Why are pipelines needed? 

The SEQ Water Grid represents the largest urban drought response in Australia and is one of the most significant pieces of water infrastructure to be developed in the country since the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

With the capacity to move water to areas of highest need and demand, the SEQ Water Grid ensures the long-term viability and sustainability of communities in the region.

The grid connects dams, weirs and other water storages. Since early 2009, LinkWater has been responsible for the management, operation and maintenance of a significant part of the SEQ Water Grid as it assumed responsibility for new pipelines.

How are pipeline routes chosen?

Pipeline routes are chosen based on the least impact they will have on individual landholders and the natural environment, while optimising the efficiency of the pipeline. For every pipeline project we first consider using existing public utility easements, cleared areas or other open spaces as a basis for route selection. Comprehensive environmental assessments are carried out for each new project as part of the route refinement.

What is an easement?

An easement is a right over a portion of land to provide a service such as a water pipeline. All LinkWater Projects' routes have been designed to use existing easements (eg roads or Energex) where possible. Maintenance of the pipeline will require the easement to be kept free of structures and trees (due to root systems which may damage the pipeline), but will generally be available for grazing and some other approved activities.

What will happen if the pipeline crosses my property?

The land tenure required for the majority of pipeline routes will be via an easement. In some instances, a part of freehold land may be required where the pipeline deviates outside of the existing easement or where land is required to construct facilities for the pipeline. In either case, if the pipeline crosses your property, a representative from the Queensland Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) will contact you in order to detail the process and discuss compensation.

When construction is complete, can I use the easement for my own purposes?

General activities such as pasturing, laying turf and similar land care activities which don't require major digging or excavation (150mm) are permitted. Some activities such as operating heavy vehicles, earthworks, tunnelling, planting certain trees, erecting fences etc do require consent from LinkWater. For a guide to living on or near a LinkWater pipeline easement, click here.

For LinkWater's Consent Guidelines, click here.

How do I get a job on the pipeline projects?

For career opportunities please refer to the careers page by clicking here.

How much land will the pipeline easement take up?

Generally, the width of a pipeline easement can vary between 15-40 metres.  If you have an existing easement on your property, the pipeline easement will be the same width.

What is the process for negotiating compensation?

For information on compensation, please refer to the Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) website.