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Advocacy

Amplifying the voice of water

Advocacy

Amplifying the voice of water

Overview

Advocacy at the Australian Water Association is about amplifying the voice of water to drive meaningful system change. We take a holistic view of advocacy – from policy submissions and government engagement to national conversations, events and water literacy initiatives that shape how our sector is understood and supported. Our role is to connect members with decision-makers, elevate shared challenges and champion evidence-based solutions. We invite you to explore, engage and be part of shaping our sustainable water future.

What we do

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Informing policy

We prepare and lodge policy submissions on behalf of our members to influence regulation, reform and investment across the water sector. Drawing on technical expertise, specialist networks and member insight, our submissions advocate for evidence-based, practical solutions that support sustainable water management.

Latest submissions


Valuing water
18 March 2026 I Submission

Submission to NSW Governments Draft Urban Heat Policy   

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ANZBP
10 October 2025 I Submission

ANZBP Submission to an NSW EPA Resource Recovery Exemption and Order

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30 June 2025 I Submission

Submission to IPART regarding Sydney Water’s Prices 

Read submission
Sharing stories

Through storytelling and sector commentary, we spotlight the challenges, innovations and expertise shaping Australia’s water future. These stories amplify member perspectives, strengthen public understanding and frame the national conversation around water policy, reform and system change.

 

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Hosting conversations

We create and curate forums where policy, industry and community perspectives intersect, bringing decision-makers and sector leaders together to discuss priorities, share insight and catalyse action. By convening these conversations, we help shape the agenda and strengthen the sector’s collective influence.

In March AWA hosted the National Policy Forum 2026 - proudly sponsored by WSP and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water - bringing together key voices across the water sector to discuss whether Australia truly governs water as if its many values mattered.  

The forum explored where current policy and governance settings embed instruments to recognise the broader cultural, social, environmental and intergenerational values of water through a series of expert speakers, and workshops that prompted participants to develop solutions for policy reform. View all the photos from the event here. 

Supporting water literacy

Strengthening water literacy is essential to long-term change. Through initiatives such as National Water Week and our Water Ambassadors program, we support communities, educators and future leaders to better understand how water is managed and why informed decisions matter.

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Engaging through networks

Our Specialist Networks connect professionals across technical and practice areas to share insight, tackle sector challenges and shape policy conversations. These member-led communities foster collaboration and contribute expert perspectives that inform advocacy priorities and strengthen the sector’s collective voice.

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