Labor Member for Lyons Rebecca White has welcomed the strong turnout at a public information session on the $39.6 million South East Irrigation Scheme.

Local farmers are now able to sign up for water rights under the scheme, and water sales of 80 per cent of the scheme's capacity will be needed to ensure the project will proceed.

Ms White, who is also a member of the Sorell Region Farmers Representative Group, said last night's meeting was well-attended.

"There's clearly strong interest from local farmers in acquiring some of the 5,000 megalitres of water that would be made available through the scheme," Ms White said.

"It was great to see so many people attend last night's meeting in Sorell to learn more about the scheme and the benefits it can provide to the local community.

"We're talking about a once in a lifetime opportunity for the region's irrigators that will provide certainty of water and has the potential to create an additional 500 jobs for our region.

"I would encourage all local farmers to take the opportunity to learn more about the scheme, and invest in this exciting development."

Farmers wishing to register to buy water have until November 8.