We have continued to advocate on behalf of our members and the industry throughout this year. One way we do this is by participating in inquiries and reviews through submissions.

Some recent examples of our submissions have included:

Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance 

WSAA provided a joint submission on behalf of the water sector, together with the NSW Water Directorate, Queensland Water Directorate, VicWater and the Water Services Sector Group to the Department of Home Affairs on the Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance consultation paper. The submission addressed potential impacts to the sector in relation to additional obligations for larger water entities, establishing cyber security obligations for entities deemed Systems of National Security, providing ‘step in powers’ for Home Affairs in the event of a national cyber security incident that was unable to be addressed by a water utility and increased resourcing for the national Trusted Information Sharing Network. The submission calls for recognition of State and Territory owners, regulations and requirements to avoid duplication and ensure due process. It also calls for effective checks and balances in the use of step in powers. 

Contact Greg Ryan, Director Business Excellence for more information.

A consultation paper on an exposure draft for changes to the Foreign Investment Reform (Protecting Australia’s National Security) Bill (FIRB) 2020

In August Treasury released a consultation paper on an exposure draft for changes to the Foreign Investment Reform (Protecting Australia’s National Security) Bill (FIRB) 2020. The primary aspect of this consultation paper of concern for the water sector is a proposed ‘Call In’ power for the Federal Treasurer to retrospectively (post 1 Jan 2021) review investment by foreign owned firms in relation to critical infrastructure. This includes third party firms contracted to operate and maintain infrastructure such as water and sewage treatment plants. These powers can allow the treasurer to modify and potentially terminate contracts established after 1 January 2021. WSAA has requested that operate and maintain contracts should be excluded from the Call In powers, or if that isn’t possible, that compensation be provided to businesses where the Call In powers are implemented.

Contact Greg Ryan, Director Business Excellence for more information.

NSW Government Architect on the draft Greener Places Design Guide

WSAA provided a submission to the NSW Government Architect on the draft Greener Places Design Guide. Overall, we support the NSW Government’s Greener Places infrastructure design framework and the development of the Design Guide to provide advice on open space for recreation, urban tree canopy, and bushland and waterways. Read the submission.

Australian Energy Market Operator on improving AEMO's stakeholder engagement

WSAA  to indicated its interest, through this submission, to explore opportunities to engage strategically with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). Read the submission.

23 Sep 2020

Laura Jaquest

Laura Jaquest

Communications Advisor