Binningup & Myalup - Coastal Communities Fund

In 2009, the Water Corporation and the Shire joined forces to establish a Community Benefits Package, aimed at supporting communities impacted by the construction of the Southern Seawater Desalination Plant. A key part of this initiative was the creation of the Coastal Communities Reserve Account, dedicated to funding meaningful community development and infrastructure projects in and around Myalup and Binningup. These funds have always been reserved exclusively for new projects, not routine maintenance or operational costs.

Initially, the Community Benefits Package provided a one-time payment of $1 million (plus GST). During the plant’s construction, the Shire secured an additional $750,000 for soil disposal at the Richardson Road Landfill site. This brought the total funding in the Coastal Communities Fund to $1.75 million, with further interest accrued over time.

Over the past 14 years, this funding has enabled 38 community projects, with $1,122,094 allocated to initiatives led by groups such as the Binningup Christian Youth, Myalup Community Association, Lions Club of Binningup, Binningup Country Club, and Binningup Bowling Club.

Now, as the agreement’s purpose has been fulfilled, the Water Corporation has requested the Shire to use the remaining funds. Here’s the plan:

• 60% of the remaining funds will be held in trust and integrated into the Shire's annual grants program, allowing local groups to apply for project funding.
• The remaining $400,000+ will be invested in significant legacy projects that will leave a lasting impact on the community.

Thank you for your input to shape the future of Myalup and Binningup.