Could Cardwell connect?

Published on 24 June 2026

Council seeks community feedback on future sewerage planning

Cardwell residents, property owners and business operators are being invited to have their say on whether Council should undertake further planning and investigations into a potential future sewerage network for the township.

The consultation follows the completion of the sewerage treatment plant servicing Port Hinchinbrook. Subject to future planning, technical investigations and funding, the plant could potentially be upgraded to support a future sewerage network for Cardwell.

Most properties in Cardwell currently rely on septic tanks or other on-site wastewater systems. Council is seeking community feedback to better understand local priorities, concerns and interest in exploring the opportunity further.

This consultation is being undertaken to understand whether there is community support for Council to undertake further planning, feasibility investigations and funding discussions relating to a potential future sewerage network for Cardwell.

A project of this scale would require significant investment and substantial funding support from the Queensland and Australian Governments.

If a future sewerage network were to proceed, connected properties would be expected to pay an annual sewerage charge, similar to those currently paid by properties connected to sewerage services in Tully, Mission Beach and Innisfail.

Preliminary estimates indicate this charge could be approximately $1,165 per year per connected property, or around $568 per half-year rates notice. For properties with multiple toilet connections, such as hotels, motels, caravan parks and some commercial businesses, additional service charges may apply. Current estimates indicate an additional charge of approximately $950 per toilet connection.

Expanding the sewerage scheme to include additional Cardwell connections may also provide broader benefits by spreading operating costs across a larger customer base. Subject to future design, funding arrangements, connection numbers and Council decisions, this may assist in reducing sewerage charges for Port Hinchinbrook properties over time.

All figures are indicative only and remain subject to further investigation, detailed design, funding outcomes and future Council budget and rating decisions.

Consultation closes on Sunday, 19 July 2026.

Could Cardwell connect? Have your say and learn more at:
www.yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/cardwell-sewerage-network-consultation   

Quotes attributable to Mayor Teresa Millwood

"We're asking the Cardwell community whether Council should explore a future sewerage network for the township.”

“This consultation is about understanding community views, concerns and priorities before any decisions are made or future planning occurs.”

Quotes attributable to Division 1 Councillor, Chris Littlemore

"We know households and businesses are carefully considering every dollar at the moment, which is why it's important we hear directly from the community about whether they see value in Council undertaking further investigations into a future sewerage network,"

"This consultation is about understanding community priorities, including the potential costs, benefits and long-term considerations for Cardwell.”

"I encourage residents, ratepayers and business owners to take part and let us know what they think."

For further information contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.