Ozwater’25: Looking back, moving forward

With the Australian water sector at a critical crossroads, Ozwater’25 – sponsored by SA Water, John Holland, SA Government and Osmoflo – is an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and use those lessons to chart a path forward. 

This year’s theme – Looking back, moving forward – emphasises the value of learning from the past to address modern challenges like climate change, water security and technological advancement. 

Reflecting on the theme, SA Water Chief Executive and Ozwater’25 Committee Chair David Ryan said this year’s event offers a chance to pause, reflect and continue building a sustainable future for the Australian water sector.  

“Everyone will have their interpretations of the theme, which a good theme will always allow. But in this, we’re at a really pivotal time for the Australian water sector,” Ryan said. 

“We’re seeing the need for significant investment, the impacts of climate change, as well as the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and other technologies. The future is both exciting and challenging.” 

Ryan highlighted the sector’s history of innovation and resilience, noting that while the challenges today are complex, they’re not unprecedented. 

“We’ve faced transformational challenges before,” he said. 

“Every state and territory around Australia has its own story of rising to the occasion when faced with difficulties. We’ve done it before and we can do it again.” 

Learning from the past

Ryan emphasised the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in shaping the sector’s future, pointing to Ozwater as a vital forum for this exchange. 

“As a sector, we are open to sharing and learning. I’ve benefited greatly from hearing about leadership and practical elements like asset management from others in the sector,” Ryan said. 

“Listening to experiences from both the past and present is critical.” 

The Ozwater'25 program features more than 300 technical presentations, workshops and site tours, providing an array of opportunities for delegates to deepen their understanding and discover new ideas. Sessions in the rural, remote and regional stream will showcase both cutting-edge innovation and the critical work occurring within remote communities. 

“The work being done by this sector in partnership with remote communities across the country is just as vital as what’s happening in large urban centres,” Ryan said. 

The future on display

One of the most dynamic aspects of Ozwater’25 will be its expansive trade exhibition, where the latest technologies and trends will be on full display. 

“The trade exhibition area is an unmissable part of the event,” Ryan said. “Every time I visit, I pick up something new, whether it’s a trend or a unique innovation.” 

With Adelaide as this year’s host city, attendees are encouraged to immerse themselves in the region’s offerings. 

“Come for more than just the conference,” Ryan said. “Adelaide and South Australia have so much to offer. It’s a brilliant time of year to visit, and the state is brimming with optimism and innovation.” 

Big-picture thinking

The spirit of Ozwater’25 encourages attendees to think beyond their usual areas of expertise and embrace diverse perspectives. 

“For attendees, my advice is to go beyond your area of expertise. Attend sessions outside your usual scope,” Ryan said. 

“Divergent thinking can spark ideas you’d never expect.” 

Ryan also shared his excitement for the Australian Water Awards, describing them as a celebration of the sector’s achievements. 

“I love the national awards. It’s a wonderful night where the sector comes together to celebrate the amazing work being done,” he said. 

“It’s also a great opportunity to catch up with familiar faces that you might only see at Ozwater.” 

Moving forward together

Chairing the Ozwater’25 Committee, Ryan expressed gratitude for the collective effort involved in bringing the event to life. 

“Chairing the committee has reaffirmed how much effort goes into making Ozwater happen,” he said. 

“From AWA staff to volunteers reviewing submissions, the hard work behind the scenes is immense. It’s something the whole sector should be proud of.” 

As delegates converge in Adelaide, Ozwater’25 offers a unique opportunity to honour the past while forging a brighter, more sustainable water future. 

“And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes,” Ryan added. “Even with everything close together, you’ll still end up getting your steps in.” 
 
Want to make the most of your time at Ozwater’25? Access the Ozwater’25 platform to keep track of everything on offer.