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 

Water utilities and authorities  
Local, state and federal government agencies 
Regulators  
Energy providers 
Universities and research organisations  
Manufacturers and suppliers
Laboratories and water testing companies 
Mining and resources 
Agriculture, aquaculture and irrigation  
Technology and IoT companies 
Infrastructure partners  
Specialist contractors 
Consulting and advisory companies 

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. 

Strategy 2030 sets the Australian Water Association’s direction for the next five years, marking a new chapter focused on impact, collaboration and a sustainable water future for all. Building on the strong foundations established under Strategy’25, AWA is evolving from a connector of water professionals to a catalyst for system-wide change. Shaped through extensive consultation with members and partners across the sector, the strategy is guided by a renewed purpose to inspire, connect and transform. 

We are committed to advancing reconciliation within the water sector by recognising and valuing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ enduring connection to water and Country.

We understand that respectful relationships, shared influence and long-term partnership are essential to achieving a sustainable water future. Reconciliation is embedded in how we lead, connect and grow the sector.

The following are part of our core activities:

• Delivering structured cultural learning for staff, Board and volunteers to strengthen cultural capability across AWA
• Developing and applying cultural protocols, including guidance for Welcome to Country, Acknowledgement of Country and respectful engagement
• Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and leadership across our events, publications and programs
• Sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge, perspectives and experiences to inform sector dialogue and learning
• Partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, communities and organisations to inform water governance, sector collaboration and policy discussions
• Supporting employment, career and leadership pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the water sector
• Offering scholarships and participation opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander water professionals
• Hosting National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week activities for staff and members
• Strengthening governance systems to track, measure and report on our progress

Ozwater continues to showcase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, Cultural Knowledge and artwork, reflecting the growing commitment of our members to reconciliation across the sector.

These commitments are supported by AWA’s Strategy 2030, which highlights the importance of connection, capability and system-wide change in shaping a sustainable water future.

Our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan outlines additional commitments that guide our reconciliation journey and strengthen partnerships across the water community. You can read the plan here:

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.