Water sector momentum continues to build across PFAS treatment, community investment, infrastructure resilience and long-term planning, with strong signals around collaboration, capability and climate adaptation.
From major investments in contamination treatment and reconciliation commitments to local infrastructure upgrades and community-led environmental initiatives, activity across the sector reflects both immediate priorities and long-term transformation.
Veolia strengthens PFAS capability with major acquisition
Veolia has announced the acquisition of Enviropacific, significantly expanding its soil remediation and hazardous waste treatment capabilities in Australia.
The move comes as PFAS contamination continues to drive large-scale monitoring and clean-up efforts across the country, with increasing regulatory pressure and growing demand for advanced treatment solutions.
The acquisition will enhance Veolia’s ability to deliver integrated remediation and water treatment services, combining global technology with local expertise and infrastructure.
Veolia CEO said Estelle Brachlianoff: “This move reinforces our position as a trusted partner for Australian public authorities and industries seeking resilient, future-ready solutions to treat pollution contribution to public health protection”.
“It is fully aligned with our GreenUp strategy and marks a new step in strengthening Veolia’s global leadership in environmental security,” she said.
AECOM reaches Stretch RAP milestone
AECOM has achieved an endorsed Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, placing it among a small group of organisations nationally to reach this level of commitment.
The milestone reflects more than a decade of work to embed reconciliation into the organisation’s strategy, with a focus on cultural capability, employment pathways and First Peoples procurement.
“Reaching this milestone – our first Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan – reflects our deepening commitment and dedication to meaningful and lasting change,” said Mark McManamny, AECOM’s chief executive for its Australia and New Zealand region.
“Our responsibilities extend beyond our workplace. As leaders in the development and delivery of cityshaping infrastructure, we have the privileged opportunity to make sure what we deliver respects Country and safeguards the cultural knowledge and practices of our First Nations communities."
Living STEM partnership continues in 2026
CSIRO and Chevron Australia will continue their Living STEM partnership in 2026, expanding efforts to embed Indigenous Knowledges into classrooms across the Pilbara.
The program has already engaged dozens of schools and educators since launching in 2023, building strong connections between local communities and STEM education.
A new initiative will support Aboriginal Rangers to work with young people, further strengthening culturally connected, hands-on learning.
“By working alongside Indigenous Rangers, community and local organisations, we’re ensuring young people see STEM as something real, relevant and connected to their lives,” said Ruth Carr, Director of CSIRO Education and Outreach.
Tasmania claims Trans-Tasman tapping title
TasWater’s Wild West Tappers have taken out top honours at the 2026 WIOA Trans-Tasman Water Main Tapping Competition, delivering a standout performance under pressure.
The competition tests the precision and technical expertise required to complete live water main connections without interrupting supply, making accuracy just as critical as speed.
TasWater General Manager Operations Brendan Windmeyer said: “Water main tapping is highly technical, safety-critical work carried out live on our network, and this result demonstrates the expertise, precision and pride our people bring to their roles every day”.
Yarra Valley Water community grants program opens
Yarra Valley Water has opened applications for its 2026 Community Grants Program, offering up to $15,000 for initiatives focused on water efficiency, environmental protection and community connection.
Building on the success of its first round, which supported 14 projects, the program aims to expand its impact across Melbourne’s north and east.
Yarra Valley Water Managing Director Natalie Foeng said: “Every project we support creates a ripple effect of positive change, and we’re excited to see that impact grow even further this year.”
South East Water appoints new Finance and Technology GM
South East Water has appointed James Chisholm as General Manager, Finance and Technology, bringing extensive experience across infrastructure, energy and utilities sectors.
Chisholm joins from Aurora Energy, where he served as Chief Financial Officer, and has previously held senior roles across major infrastructure and transformation programs.
“James’ extensive experience in commercial finance, financial operations, treasury and tax, along with his leadership of major finance and technology transformations, will help take us forward in delivering our strategy for our customers, communities, people and the environment,” said Managing Director Carla Purcell.
Unitywater upgrades pipeline to support growing communities
Unitywater will begin works to upgrade a key water pipeline along Bribie Island Road, improving reliability and capacity for surrounding communities.
The project includes installation of 300 metres of pipeline and forms part of a broader infrastructure program to support population growth and long-term water security.
“These works will ensure Unitywater can meet the needs of the growing community in this area, supplying clean, safe water to keep current and future Moreton Bay residents healthy and hydrated,” said Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions Mike Basterfield.
Community effort supports thousands of turtle hatchlings
More than 4,600 turtle hatchlings have been safely guided to sea on Bribie Island this season, supported by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association and Unitywater’s Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program.
Volunteers monitored dozens of nests and implemented protection measures to improve survival rates, while also enhancing tools to support responsible beach use.
Unitywater Acting Executive Manager Strategic Engagement Melissa Bowerman said: “Unitywater’s purpose is to be here for healthy and thriving communities, and we do that every day with the delivery of safe, reliable water and wastewater services”.
“But beyond the pumps and pipes, our team members are part of this community, and we are proud to support organisations like BIEPA, which are enhancing the lifestyle and amenity we all enjoy,” she said.
WA sets direction for long-term water security
The Western Australian Government has released Made Possible by Water, a new document outlining a long-term approach to securing water supplies in a drying climate.
The strategy highlights investment in desalination, recycling and climate-resilient infrastructure, alongside stronger collaboration across government, utilities and industry.
“Made Possible by Water initiates an important community-wide discussion on safeguarding our long-term water security,” said Water and Climate Resilience Minister Don Punch.
“With declining rainfall and sharply reduced dam inflows, Western Australia is contending with some of the most challenging water conditions globally. The government's decisive measures are strengthening the State's resilience while supporting ongoing economic development.”
Clean drinking water restored in remote WA community
Clean drinking water has been restored to Kiwirrkurra following major upgrades to its water treatment plant and pipe network.
The project addresses long-standing water quality challenges and forms part of a broader program to improve water services in Aboriginal communities.
“With the major upgrades to the water treatment plant and pipe network now complete, Kiwirrkurra has a more reliable supply of drinking water that meets Department of Health requirements,” said Water and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch.
“I acknowledge the patience and leadership of the Kiwirrkurra community, and I thank the local Aboriginal-owned contractor Pilbara Meta Maya for their work in assisting Water Corporation to deliver this important outcome.”
Sydney Water lifts North Shore notice after major repair
Sydney Water has lifted a Conserve Water Notice for customers on the North Shore following repairs to critical infrastructure at the West Ryde Pumping Station.
The notice was issued after a major water main break caused significant damage and reduced the system’s ability to transfer water to local reservoirs.
Sydney Water Managing Director Darren Cleary said: “This was a complex repair involving significant damage to critical pumping equipment at one of our most important water distribution assets”.
“Our crews successfully isolated the break within two hours and have continued to work 24/7 to repair the damaged infrastructure to bring pumping capacity back online and restore supply to local reservoirs,” he said.
“By reducing non-essential water use, customers helped us maintain supply while crews worked to safely restore full operations.”
Circular economy research highlights community impacts
New research from Charles Darwin University is exploring how circular economy approaches can better support community development alongside environmental outcomes.
The study identified challenges including high upfront investment, risks to local jobs and misalignment with existing community practices.
“Many have expressed concerns about the absence of societal development goals and the need to scale up social and environmental activities as corporate circular economy actions intensify,” said Dr Michael Odei Erdiaw-Kwasie.
“To achieve sustainable outcomes, circular strategies must incorporate social processes and structures.”
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