ABOUT US

The Australian Water Association connects people, businesses and governments creating a sustainable water future.  Through our local, national and international network of 5,000 individual and business members we share information and opportunities, and connect to inspire positive change. 

Events, awards and specialist networks position our members as leaders in innovative water management. Build a career or build a business with support from our water community. 
 

Who are AWA members 

Since 1962 we’ve connected people and organisations working with water. 

1960s – An Association begins 
The Australian Water and Wastewater Association creates 4 branches (QLD, NSW, VIC, SA) with post-war installation of water and sanitation high on the agenda.  The 1st Federal Convention held in 1964  

1970s – The water network grows 
3 more branches added (WA, TAS, NT) 

1980s – Open membership 
1st AWWA Executive Director appointed, Peter Hughes and membership open to anyone interested in water 

1990s – Ozwater is born 
15th Federal Convention held on the Gold Coast with the exhibition titled Ozwater. AWWA dropped wastewater to become the Australian Water Association (AWA) 

2000s – Expanding networks 
AWA registered as a company with Specialist Networks and the ANZBP formed. IWA Australia Committee recognised as a branch of AWA 

2010s – Building strong connections 
1st delegation to Vietwater, Channeling Change program launched and Strategy’22 introduced.  

2020s – Challenge, change, and 60 years of AWA 
In person Ozwater cancelled for the first time and the first Ozwater online held. Ozwater’21 returns as the largest business event in Australia since COVID began.  In 2022 we celebrate 60 years of advocating for people and organisations working with water and committed to a sustainable water future. 

Developed by and for AWA members, Strategy’25 is our three-year strategic and 10 year aspiration plan – supporting our vision to inspire and drive a sustainable water future. 

Strategy'25 was developed with our members, focusing on our key areas of member experience, water for sustainable and resilient communities, and Indigenous and community collaboration.

We're committed to promoting and developing activities that improve the understanding of indigenous culture and connection to water and Country. 

We understand that greater and more meaningful engagement and collaboration with First Nations people is required to achieve a sustainable water future. And as such, we are proud to say the following are now part of our core activities: 

We will be taking the opportunity to showcase the significant artwork of our Principal Members, RAPs at Ozwater and their commitment to reconciliation.

Board of Directors 
The Association’s Board ensures we fulfil our purpose and is ultimately accountable for the sustainability, solvency and legal obligations of the Association. 

The skills-based Board meets at least 6 times a year. All Directors are AWA members from nomination through their term of office.  

Strategic Advisory Council 
The Strategic Advisory Council (SAC) consists of two representatives from each AWA branch and one representative from each Sustaining Member organisation.  The SAC selects Directors for ratification at the AGM and assists in the development of our strategy.   

Governance  
Australian Water Association Limited is a company limited by guarantee and a charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). 

AWA operates under a constitution, supporting by-laws, and in line with policies and procedures.   

Our Annual Report and Year in Review provides a snapshot of our strategic and member achievements and include our financial statements.