Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre renewal
The Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre (LMWQCC) has been treating Canberra’s wastewater for decades.
As our city grows and climate pressures increase, parts of the plant are reaching the end of their life and nearing capacity. To keep protecting our environment and continue providing high-quality wastewater services to our community, we’re investing in major upgrades.
Our plans include several projects:
Project | Summary | Status |
| Bioreactor project | The introduction of advanced technology to increase wastewater treatment capacity. | 🔄In progress |
| Biosolids project | An update to systems that manage waste to reduce environmental impact and support beneficial reuse. | ⚙️In development |
These projects will help us:
- Continue delivering essential wastewater services for Canberra’s growing population
- Make the treatment process more efficient, reliable and sustainable by introducing new technology
- Keep treating wastewater to a high standard, so it can be returned to the Molonglo River, protecting water quality and the environment.
FAQs
What is Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre (LMWQCC)?
LMWQCC is Canberra’s main wastewater treatment facility. It treats wastewater from homes and businesses, using physical, chemical and biological processes.
Treated water from LMWQCC is then released into the Molonglo River.
Why does LMWQCC need renewal?
Parts of LMWQCC are reaching the end of their operational life and nearing capacity.
With Canberra’s population growing and climate pressures increasing, upgrades are essential to maintain reliable wastewater services and protect our waterways.
What does the LMWQCC renewal program involve?
The program includes major upgrades to treatment processes, biosolids handling, and supporting infrastructure.
These improvements will increase capacity and make the LMWQCC more resilient and sustainable.
How will this benefit the community?
The renewal program will mean we can:
- Continue delivering reliable wastewater services for Canberra and its growing population
- Make the treatment process more efficient, reliable and sustainable by introducing new technology
- Reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability.
Will there be any disruptions during the project?
Most work will occur within LMWQCC, so impacts on the community will be minimal.
However, there may be increased traffic along Stockdill Drive, Drake-Brockman Drive and parts of Pro Hart Avenue.
We’re committed to keeping the community updated on the work and any expected impacts.
When will the LMWQCC renewal be completed?
The renewal program is being delivered in stages over several years. Key milestones and updates will be shared on our website and through community channels.
How is this work being funded?
The LMWQCC renewal program is funded through our regulated pricing structure. This means the costs are recovered gradually over time through customer bills, as approved by the Independent Competition and Regulatory Commission (ICRC).
We work closely with the ICRC to make sure prices reflect the real cost of providing safe, reliable wastewater services while remaining affordable for the community.
Factsheet: Icon Water infrastructure investments and customer pricing.
How is Icon Water engaging with the community?
We are committed to transparent communication and will provide regular updates to the community.
If you’re interested in staying up to date with this project, please email letstalkwater.wastewater@iconwater.com.au and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
We’re always happy to help
For general enquiries, you can contact us directly at talktous@iconwater.com.au. Our team will do their best to respond within 24 hours.
If you need a bit more assistance, or just prefer talking to a person,
you can call us on (02) 6248 3111 (select option 3).