Chidlow Water Crisis
MEDIA RELEASE
31 July 2025
Chidlow Water Crisis: Community Forces Government to Act, But Real Fixes Still Needed
The State Government’s admission of failure in Chidlow’s water supply was a major breakthrough for residents but falls well short of a long-term solution.
“The Government has finally admitted what locals have known for years. Chidlow’s water service is broken and below standards” Member for Kalamunda Adam Hort MLA said.
“While compensation for affected homes is a small step forward it is a patch up job, not a plan. The Cook Government must now deliver a real long term and community wide fix.”
“What is happening in Chidlow and Wooroloo is a textbook case of infrastructure neglect. Families deserve better than a patchwork pump and tank. They deserve water they can count on.”
Pressure monitoring revealed some Chidlow homes received water pressure as low as 7.5 metres head well below the minimum 15 metre standard with one property even recording negative pressure. After years of community pressure the Water Corporation is now offering up to $20,000 per property for makeshift water systems and classifying the service as non-standard.
“While the immediate support for thirteen households is a positive first step this remains a broader community issue and we hope Minister Punch will consider a long term solution that supports everyone affected” Mr Hort said.
Chidlow Progress Association Secretary Bobbie Selleck welcomed the compensation but warned it falls short of what is needed.
“The Water Corporation’s recent commitment to assist thirteen Chidlow properties with tanks and pumps is a welcome start but far from a complete solution” Ms Selleck said.
“Residents across the Perth Hills are calling for a long-term fix with strong support for a community wide upgrade voiced at the July 24 Town Hall meeting.”
“Local MPs and community advocates are rallying behind an active e-petition urging the government to prioritise reliable water infrastructure for all because access to water is not a luxury it is a basic right.”
The WA Liberals are backing the community campaign and will continue to press the Government to commit to long term upgrades including the proposed East Chidlow Booster station, a community surge tank and broader investment in resilient infrastructure for the region.
ENDS
Media Contact: Hayden Tognela – 0467 044 028
