the new taxes to fund the dams would be a bit of a blow. the other way is to offload the projects to private companies which is the libs usual default position. not that labor doesn't do it too.

the problem with overseas or local investors building the dams is the motive really, you dont get something for nothing. which begs the question 'How much are we going to be charged for this water considering its  private profit-driven owner ?' 

and how little are the overseas workers brought in on 457 visas going to be paid. any locals who expect work out of these projects are going to be disappointed.

considering Anna Bligh was beaten down in Qld - in a conservative voting area - when she wanted to put in a dam it hardly seems like a clever or viable idea.  the wonderful (ha ha) Qld premier has also stopped all new housing having to have water tanks which was a sensible idea.