Week in water: updates from across the water community
by Water Source
This week in water, reconciliation and resilience are in focus across the sector as utilities strengthen partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, students in remote regions learn water wisdom, and climate adaptation efforts continue at scale.
Around the country, customer care initiatives, infrastructure clean-up, harmful algal blooms, and sustained dry weather bring both challenges and innovations in water management. Groundbreaking tech is also making waves, with a world-first remote sewer inspection boosting safety and efficiency in infrastructure management.
Internationally, Europe sharpens its water resilience strategy with concrete savings targets, while global consultancies step up to lead on climate action.
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National
WSP named as a climate change consulting leader
Independent research firm Verdantix has reaffirmed WSP's position as a global leader in climate change consulting in its 2025 Green Quadrant: Climate Change Consulting report.
The analysis benchmarks leading providers in climate strategy, technical expertise and project delivery, recognising WSP's ability to deliver “climate implementation projects at global scale across key asset-intensive industries”.
WSP Global Director, Earth & Environment, André-Martin Bouchard said: "As the market shifts and matures, we are extremely proud to be recognised by Verdantix for the depth of our climate expertise and the breadth of its applications to support our clients’ growing needs".
WSP received top scores for decarbonisation implementation and carbon removal expertise, reflecting its leadership in delivering end-to-end services – from strategy through to engineering and project management – as well as its work on carbon capture, storage and removal technologies.
States and territories
Central Coast Council pioneers world-first remote inspection
Central Coast Council has successfully completed a world-first remote sewer inspection using a first-of-its-kind remote-controlled vehicle, enhancing safety and efficiency in sewer maintenance.
Developed by KBR and Emesent, the custom-built vehicle combines remote operation with cutting-edge technology. On its first mission, the vehicle scanned over 640 metres of sewer pipe between Terrigal and North Avoca – the longest distance ever achieved by a vehicle of its kind.
Central Coast Council Director Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said: "We’re proud to be the first local government in Australia to deploy this kind of innovative technology for sewer inspections. The results have shown us that there is a safer, more efficient and cost-effective way for us to maintain our infrastructure for the benefit of the community."
Yarra Valley Water launches second Stretch RAP
Yarra Valley Water has launched its second Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), deepening its commitment to reconciliation and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to embed cultural knowledge into water management.
Managing Director Pat McCafferty said: "The RAP supports our work with Traditional Owners to incorporate First Peoples’ cultural knowledge into future water planning and management".
The RAP was developed in consultation with Wurundjeri, Bunurong and Boon Wurrung elders. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Gail said: "They’ve listened, and they’ve been respectful, and there’s been unity. It’s been really inclusive".
APY Lands students dive into water wisdom with new program
SA Water’s new Anangu Water Wisdom program is strengthening water conservation knowledge for students across the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia.
Developed with Atria Group and local communities, the program blends Traditional Knowledge with western water management practices.
"Our new program recognises this remote region holds some of the world’s oldest water stories, passed down through generations," said Kellie McDonald, SA Water’s Manager of Brand and Community Connection.
"These stories now coexist with cutting-edge technology, and Anangu Water Wisdom values both".
Pipeline upgrade boosts regional water securit
Western Australia has committed $543 million to upgrade the Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme.
Stage one will replace 44.5 km of ageing pipeline, upgrade valves and double storage at Binduli Reservoir. These works, delivering an extra 7.2ML daily by 2027, will secure water supplies for over 100,000 residents, farms and industries.
WA Water Minister Don Punch said: "A secure and reliable water supply is essential to the future of the Goldfields, a region that plays a pivotal role in our State's continued economic success".
Gippsland Water expands customer care campaign
Gippsland Water is reminding customers that financial support is available through its Customer Care campaign.
Managing Director Sarah Cumming said: "We offer a range of flexible payment options, and our team will assist and work out what’s best for you and your needs".
On-the-spot support events will also be held in coming months, with dates and locations to be announced soon.
TasWater and Hobart Hurricanes to promote water wise habits
TasWater has partnered with the Hobart Hurricanes cricket team for its Save Water. Save Our Thing campaign, showcasing everyday water-saving habits from Tasmania’s top cricketers.
Hurricanes player Mitch Owen said: "You don’t need to overhaul your life to use water wisely. It’s the small things, done consistently, that add up".
Stage 1 water restrictions for East Coast and Flinders Island
Persistent dry conditions have kept Stage 1 water restrictions in place for Orford, Triabunna and Lady Barron on Flinders Island.
TasWater Head of Communications and Engagement Liz Hafner said: "Tasmania is currently much drier than average for this time of year", and urged residents and visitors to remain water wise.
Harmful algal bloom monitored in South Australia
A naturally occurring harmful algal bloom is affecting parts of South Australia’s coastline, with testing confirming the presence of the Karenia algae strain in the Coorong North Lagoon between Seven Mile Basin and Long Point.
Weekly testing will continue as authorities monitor the bloom’s movement. Visitors are advised to avoid discoloured or foamy water and areas where marine life appears unhealthy.
International
EC sets 10% water savings target under Water Resilience Strategy
The European Commission has introduced a 10% water reduction target for all EU member states by 2030, as part of its Water Resilience Strategy.
Presenting the strategy, Commissioner Jessika Roswall said: "Member States can choose how to achieve this reduction. For example, by preventing leakage or scaling up water reuse. It is important to create awareness with this strategy. This is the beginning of a journey".
The strategy focuses on restoring water cycles, building a water-smart economy, and ensuring clean, affordable water for all.
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