Reviewing the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme

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SA Water has reviewed NAIS to understand how it is delivering sustainable benefit for the people of South Australia.

The review assessed the:

  • current and forecast demand for NAIS water in the region
  • stakeholder perceptions of NAIS pricing and service delivery
  • potential opportunities to help NAIS further facilitate economic growth.

A copy of the report can be found on the right hand side of this page in the Documents folder.


SA Water has reviewed NAIS to understand how it is delivering sustainable benefit for the people of South Australia.

The review assessed the:

  • current and forecast demand for NAIS water in the region
  • stakeholder perceptions of NAIS pricing and service delivery
  • potential opportunities to help NAIS further facilitate economic growth.

A copy of the report can be found on the right hand side of this page in the Documents folder.

  • NAIS Review Draft Report for consultation

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    The NAIS Review Draft Report consultation is now closed and feedback received is being considered.

    If you have any questions, please email - project@sawater.com.au

    Post -

    NAIS Review

    C/- SA Water’s Stakeholder Engagement Team

    GPO Box 1751

    ADELAIDE SA 5001

  • About NAIS

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    The Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme (NAIS) produces and distributes up to six gigalitres (GL) per annum of high-quality recycled water for agricultural production across the Northern Adelaide Plains.

    NAIS water is suitable for horticulture, floriculture, fruit and nut orchards, table and wine grapes, high-value broad-acre cropping.

    This climate independent water supply was first delivered to NAIS customers in 2021, and commercial customer contracts are in place for up to 2.7GL - or around 45 per cent - of the scheme's current capacity.

    The $155 million investment in NAIS by the Commonwealth and South Australian Governments and SA Water, aims to grow agribusiness across the region with new intensive food production developments that will capitalise on growing global demand for food.

    When combined with a new climate and season independent source of water, the region's fertile soils, Mediterranean climate, proximity to transport and logistics, and access to skilled labour, are well positioned to supply Asia's rapidly growing middle class which is seeking clean healthy food imports.

    NAIS customers also benefit from the scheme's tightly managed water quality, in-scheme stable indexed pricing and long-term tradeable contracts.

    Like other recycled water schemes, NAIS is anticipated to take several years to optimise, with new high-tech horticultural developments typically requiring substantial planning and investment.


Page last updated: 02 Nov 2023, 04:09 PM