This year marks the tenth anniversary of the partnership between the Australian Water Association (AWA) and the Vietnam Water Supply and Sewerage Association (VWSA).
On 6 November 2024, during Vietnam Water Week, AWA and VWSA commemorated this significant milestone by renewing our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Since the signing of our first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2014, and its renewal in 2019, our collaboration has grown from strength to strength.
The ceremony was attended by the Australian Embassy's Chargé d'Affaires Renée Deschamps, who shared remarks reflecting on the achievements of this longstanding partnership. Together, we connect professionals from both countries, share vital water sector knowledge and technological innovations, and inspire a future that prioritises sustainability. Most importantly, our partnership provides our members with opportunities to grow in their roles and contribute to the sector more broadly.
Utility-to-utility partnerships have been at the heart of our Australian Government-supported capacity-building programs, enabling Australian and Vietnamese water utilities to exchange knowledge and practices that have directly enhanced their services.
These initiatives have linked over 20 utilities across Australia and Vietnam, engaging thousands of water operators. The shared knowledge has improved capabilities in areas including asset management, non-revenue water, and water quality, enhancing water services for over 12 million customers.
In the governance space, we have facilitated policy support and regulatory knowledge-sharing, strengthening Vietnamese government initiatives. For the private sector, the partnership has created avenues for market access, strategic business collaborations, and technology showcases.
For research and development agencies, we’ve highlighted Australian skills and capabilities, showcasing these key contributions to the water sector. Our dedication to supporting Young Water Professionals (YWPs) has fostered career development, networking, and mentorship opportunities. Initiatives like the Channeling Change Program have uplifted women in the sector, nurturing vital professional networks.
This decade-long journey has solidified the bond between AWA and VWSA, laying the foundation for a shared sustainable water future, impacting millions across our two nations. As we look to the future, we’re excited to be working together with VWSA and our other regional international association partners to find new ways to connect, learn from each other, and inspire the next generation of water leaders.