
The Looking back, moving forward Podcast series is proudly sponsored by Downer.
Latest Podcast Episodes
Episode 7
Neurodiversity in water: rethinking inclusion for a smarter sector
In this episode Annalisa Contos (Principal, Atom Consulting) and Michael Krome (Chief Operations Officer, Australian Spatial Analytics) sit down with the Australian Water Association to discuss neurodiversity in the water industry. From lived experience to scalable employment solutions, they explore how embracing neurodivergent talent is not only a social good, but a strategic move to address workforce challenges.
Episode 6
A handbook for water utilities: engaging and supporting businesses to be water efficient
In this episode Adam Jones (Principal Engineer) from BMT and Jethro Laidlaw (Manager of Water Efficiency) from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water sit down with the Australian Water Association to discuss a newly released handbook designed to help water utilities engage with businesses on water efficiency. They explore the challenges of non-residential water use, the importance of strong utility-business relationships, and how tailored tools like data loggers and strategic audits can drive meaningful change.
Episode 5
Investigation on removal of PFAS using water treatment sludge and biochar
In this episode of the Looking Back, Moving Forward podcast series, Dr Duc Nguyen (Technology Project Engineer, Circular Economy Team, South East Water) discusses innovative approaches to PFAS removal using water treatment sludge and biosolid-derived biochar. Duc shares insights from his PhD research and South East Water's pioneering work to turn waste into resource, highlighting the circular economy potential of these materials.
Episode 4
Turning the tap on water literacy
In this episode, Tracey Willingham (Manager, Water Literacy and Education at Sydney Water) and Shane Jacobson (Actor, Comedian, and Sydney Water Ambassador) sit down with the Australian Water Association to discuss turning the tap on water literacy. They explore the power of education, myth-busting and community trust in building support for water conservation and purified recycled water.
Episode 3
From research to reality: how the Water e-Journal drives practice
In this episode, Nick Swain (Manager, Research and Development at SA Water; Member, Water e-Journal Technical Committee) sits down with the Australian Water Association to discuss how the Water e-Journal bridges the gap between research and real-world application. They explore the evolving nature of publishing in the digital age, the importance of making industry knowledge accessible, and the value of contributing to the Water e-Journal at any career stage.
Episode 2
More than safety: tackling psychological risks in the water sector
In this episode of the Looking back, moving forward podcast series, Paul Clifford (Psychologist, Paul Clifford Psychology) sits down with the Australian Water Association to discuss tackling psychological risks in the water sector. Paul explains the growing importance of psychosocial risk management, how audits can inform cultural change, and the role of leadership in building mentally healthy workplaces.
Episode 1
Securing our water future: water resilience in a changing climate
In this episode of the Looking back, moving forward podcast series, Dr Ashley Kingsborough (Senior Manager Water Futures and Security, SA Water) sits down with the Australian Water Association to discuss water security in the face of South Australia's record-breaking dry conditions. Ashley shares how a diversified supply, community engagement, and flexible long-term planning are building resilience.
Accelerating Action (2024 Series)
2024 Accelerating Action Podcast Recaps
Episode 18
Carbon credits in the water sector
In this episode of the Accelerating Action podcast, Kate Smith (Senior Consultant, Aurecon) and Anthony Williams (Manager for Carbon Markets and Strategy, Aurecon) sit down with the Australian Water Association to explore the role of carbon credits in the water sector.
Episode 17
Indigenous-led youth outreach using real-world community water engineering challenges
In this episode of the Accelerating Action podcast, Josh MacLeod (Pathways Outreach Program Manager, Engineers Without Borders Australia) sits down with the Australian Water Association to discuss an inspiring Indigenous-led youth outreach initiative.
Episode 16
Biosolids production and end use in Australia and New Zealand: statistics and trends
In the latest episode of the Accelerating Action podcast, Lauren Randall (Team Leader, Drinking Water Quality Program, Hunter Water) and Beatrice Yong (Senior Technical Advisor, Water Corporation) sit down with the Australian Water Association for an insightful conversation on biosolids management.











