Like health, education and transport there are an increasing number of issues in the urban water industry that should be dealt with collaboratively at the national level.

The urban water industry provides essential water and wastewater services to over 24 million people in Australia’s cities and towns, is highly trusted by the community and has a strong track record of providing high quality services. However, there remain challenges that could impact the delivery of better outcomes for customers and where direct leadership at the national level would be beneficial.

WSAA supports:

  • returning water to the COAG process; and 
  • a new National Water Initiative (NWI) including:
    - a national water security framework 
    - all options on the table including purified recycled water for drinking
    - uplift of regional, remote and Indigenous water services
    - commitment to liveability and health outcomes.

In addition there are opportunities for Federal Government leadership, actions and support including:

  • Commitment to stronger funding of critical government departments including the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH&MRC). 
  • Support for national research and innovation on water issues. 
  • Critical infrastructure and critical supply chains. 
  • Cyber security. 
  • The transition to Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions. 
  • The development of hydrogen 
  • The shift from a linear to a circular economy 
  • A focus on skills and training. 

Read the full statement below.

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26 Apr 2022

Sandi Kolbe

Sandi Kolbe

Communications Manager