Week in water: updates from across the water community
by Water Source
The Federal Government is one step closer to crafting a new National Water Agreement, Tasmania pushes for better water accountability, and Melbourne Water's biogas system wins recognition for innovation. Meanwhile, communities in Bendigo and across SA benefit from critical water education and infrastructure improvements.
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National
Have your say on Australia’s new National Water Agreement
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is inviting Australians to contribute to the draft principles for a new National Water Agreement.
This round of engagement seeks feedback on critical areas including climate change adaptation, urban water management, and the role of science and partnerships in water governance.
The public consultation period ends on 18 September 2024. Responses are expected to shape the agreement's final objectives, find the link to the survey below.
States and territories
Desalination set to strengthen water security
The NSW Government has given the green light to build a seawater desalination plant in Belmont, a pivotal step toward bolstering water security in the region. Hunter Water will lead the delivery with construction expected to begin in late 2024.
The $530 million investment in building a permanent desalination plant will significantly enhance the region’s drought preparedness and response capabilities.The Lower Hunter is particularly vulnerable to dry seasons and drought.
Upon completion, the desalination plant will provide up to 30 million litres of rainfall-independent drinking water per day to the Lower Hunter, meeting approximately 15% of the region's average daily demand.
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary said: "We can't rely on rain alone anymore. Our region's water storages can fall from typical operating levels to critical levels in less than three years. Should a severe drought continue beyond three years, our region could run out of water.
“As a key action in the Lower Hunter Water Security Plan, the Belmont Desalination Plant will be an enduring, integrated, and vital part of the Lower Hunter's water supply system.”
Melbourne Water’s biogas innovation wins major award
Melbourne Water, in collaboration with the John Holland-KBR Joint Venture, has won the prestigious Earth Award for its Biogas Handling System.
The project is part of the Eastern Treatment Plant and enables Melbourne Water to convert sewerage gases into electricity, covering around 30% of the plant’s energy needs. The upgrade is a crucial step towards Melbourne Water’s goal of decarbonisation.
General Manager of Major Capital Delivery Craig Wills said: “This project represents a major milestone in our efforts to enhance liveability while tackling climate change.”
Coliban Water’s multilingual water education initiative
In Bendigo, more than 100 non-English speaking students recently participated in a water education session facilitated by Coliban Water, strengthening community bonds through the dissemination of essential water knowledge.
The session aimed to raise awareness of safe drinking water and wastewater treatment processes.
Lauren McLean, Executive General Manager Customer and Stakeholder Experience, highlighted the importance of the initiative for increasing water literacy in the community: “We hope this builds confidence in our communities to approach us for information.”
SA Water nears completion on sewer network upgrades
Significant upgrades to Bridgewater’s sewer system are almost complete, with the installation of over 100 metres of new sewer main and erosion protection.
SA Water Senior Manager of Capital Delivery Peter Seltsikas noted that once a new flow meter and valve are installed, the project will be finished, marking a critical improvement in the region’s wastewater infrastructure.
Tasmania’s water accountability framework under review
An independent review of Tasmania’s Water Accountability Framework has been successfully completed by Ricardo for the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania.
This assessment is part of Tasmania’s Rural Water Use Strategy and focuses on modernising water management practices amid emerging challenges like climate change and population growth.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Jane Howlett stated: "The findings will help Tasmania enhance water use planning and investment decisions, ensuring sustainability for future generations”.
Water conservation in Tasmania
As part of an ongoing public engagement, TasWater has revealed key insights into Tasmanians' water usage habits, with many admitting to longer-than-recommended showers.
The feedback, gathered from more than 3000 Tasmanians, has been vital to the utility’s Price and Service Plan. Head of Communications and Engagement Callan Paske said: "We’re pleased to see such strong community involvement in shaping the future of our water resources”.
Useful links mentioned above
Have your say on the National Water Agreement
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