Week in water: updates from across the water community
by Water Source
This week in water, the Australian Government is investing a further $200 million into projects aimed at improving water quality runoff into the Great Barrier Reef and CSIRO is preparing to host the AI for climate change symposium in Melbourne.
TasWater is stepping up to support struggling households with a new customer assistance program and Hunter Water has completed its largest solar energy project, helping power critical infrastructure with renewable energy. Globally, rising water tariffs are putting pressure on households, and experts are warning about the environmental and health impacts of bottled water consumption.
Do you want in-depth articles on trends within the water community delivered to your inbox? Sign up for the Australian Water Association’s National Source newsletter here.
National
$200 million to repair land and improve water quality
The Australian Government has announced six major projects aimed at improving the quality of water flowing to the Great Barrier Reef. These will be delivered through the $200 million Landscape Repair Program, which focuses on reducing sediment runoff through land-based initiatives to ensure a healthy Reef.
Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef Senator Nita Green said: “This funding is part of our record investment to improve water quality on the Great Barrier Reef".
“It is great to see funding supporting a range of groups across regional Queensland, including Traditional Owners, conservation and NRM organisations, scientists and landholders to do their part for Reef protection.”
CSIRO's AI for climate symposium
CSIRO is set to host a symposium to bring together industry, government and researchers to explore how AI can help responsibly adapt to and mitigate climate change.
Innovating for a sustainable and thriving future in a changing climate is a two-day event, planned for16-17 October at the State Library Victoria in Melbourne. The symposium will cover various AI use case studies from around Australia, including in agriculture, infrastructure, emergency management and more.
State and territories
TasWater launches enhanced customer support program
TasWater has introduced a refreshed customer support initiative called TasWater Assist to help Tasmanians struggling with living costs manage their water bills.
Head of Customer Services Jayne Shepherd said: “TasWater Assist will be new to many Tasmanians. Times are tough right now, cost of living is high, and many people are struggling to make ends meet – some for the very first time.
“This is our way of supporting our customers to regain control over their water bills,” she added.”
Kevin Young announced as new TasWater chair
Current Board Director Kevin Young will take over as the new Chair of TasWater, replacing Dr Stephen Gumley AO, who has served in the role since 2018.
Chief Owners’ Representative Wayne Johnston said: “Kevin has been a member of TasWater’s board since 2019, and it’s my pleasure to announce that he will become Chair of the Board of Directors on 30 November 2024”.
“We’re confident Kevin is the perfect Chair to lead TasWater in the next phase of its journey to unlock water’s full potential for a thriving Tasmania,” he said.
Hunter Water switches on its largest renewable energy project
Hunter Water has completed its largest solar PV installation at Balickera Water Pump Station, marking a significant step in its renewable energy initiatives. With a capacity of 3.1 MW, the solar farm will help power large pumps and other critical assets, bringing Hunter Water’s total renewable energy generation to over 6 MW.
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary said: “Electricity use across our operational area is one of Hunter Water's major expenses, accounting for up to 10% of our operating costs. Generating electricity from solar energy is one of several opportunities that can help reduce these costs and carbon emissions".
“As well as significantly decreasing our operational costs, this project is also an important step towards minimising our environmental impact, underscoring our dedication to creating a more sustainable future for the Lower Hunter region.”
The Hon. Niall Blair welcomed as Sydney Water's new chairperson
The Hon. Niall Blair has officially commenced as the new Chair of Sydney Water, succeeding Grant King AM. Blair previously served as Director on the board of Sydney Water and was NSW Minister for Water from 2015-2017.
Sydney Water Managing Director Roch Cheroux said: “Niall is an exceptional Director and brings rich knowledge and enthusiasm for innovation to the Chair role".
“His previous work as Minister for Water means he is well placed to make decisions and lead the charge for Sydney Water’s next chapter.”
International
Global water tariff hikes hit record levels
According to the latest Global Water Tariff Survey by Global Water Intelligence, the average combined water, wastewater and stormwater bill has risen by 10.7% over the past 12 months – the largest increase ever recorded.
The hike is driven by rising costs, overdue infrastructure upgrades and climate change adaptation, with significant impacts particularly felt in developing regions.
The survey covers 616 cities across 190 countries and provides valuable insights for understanding tariff changes, assessing project prospects and identifying water pricing needs worldwide.
Bottled water taking a toll on health and the environment
A new commentary published in BMJ Global Health by researchers from Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar highlights the increasing environmental and health impacts of bottled water consumption. Approximately 1 million bottles are purchased globally every minute, with demand continuing to rise.
For many, bottled water is essential due to limited access to safe drinking water, but for others, it is primarily driven by convenience and the misconception that it is safer than tap water.
The researchers note that bottled water is often not subjected to the same rigorous safety standards as tap water, and contaminants such as microplastics, phthalates and bisphenol A have been found in bottled samples.
Interested in staying up to date on trends and insights within the water community? Sign up for the Australian Water Association’s national Source newsletter here.
