National Online Technical Event

1 Apr, 2026 - 1 Apr, 2026 |

6.00pm – 7:30pm |

Online

The Newcastle Committee Presents: Keeping the Tap Flowing: Making Water Affordable for All

Join us for an essential conversation on water affordability in the face of unprecedented challenges. As construction costs soar combined with inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints against a backdrop of more stringent regulations, increasing populations and climate change, utilities are under pressure to invest heavily in infrastructure while keeping water prices fair during a cost-of-living crisis.

How do we strike the right balance between prudent financially sustainable capital expenditure and affordable water services? What innovative strategies can help us deliver sustainable solutions without burdening households?

This event brings together industry leaders, contractors, utilities, policy makers, and technical experts to explore practical pathways for managing rising costs while safeguarding accessibility for all Australians.

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of water pricing and affordability. Together, we can shape the conversation around resilience, equity, and sustainability in our water systems.

Speakers

	Stuart Wilson - WSAA Deputy Executive Director Stuart is an economist who has held a wide variety of senior policy positions in the public and private sectors specialising in infrastructure issues. Currently he is the Deputy Executive Director with the Water Services Association of Australia. Before joining WSAA he worked at Sydney Water as Principle Economist and Manager, Regulatory Strategy and Pricing for 7 years. During that time he oversaw a number of regulatory price reviews and was heavily involved in commercial transactions such as the lease to the private sector of the Sydney Desalination plant.
	Dr Therese Flapper FTSE GAICD - TGFactor Non Executive Director Therese has over 35 years of experience across the water, energy and property sectors within the built environment, holding senior executive, board and advisory roles. She is internationally recognised for her impact in the water sector, contributing to initiatives that have improved access to safe water and sanitation for more than 200 million people while balancing public health, environmental and regulatory outcomes. A qualified scientist and engineer, Therese is known for her strategic, solutions-focused approach and her leadership in driving innovation and digital transformation. She also serves as Deputy Captain of the Burra Brigade of the Rural Fire Service.
	Blake Curtis - Eire Constructions General Manager Business Development Blake is a construction and utilities professional with 25+years’ experience, predominantly in the water and wastewater sector. He has worked across project delivery, estimating andbusiness development roles, supporting both OPEX and CAPEX programs - frommaintenance and renewals through to major construction and design-led projectdevelopment. Known for a practical, relationship-driven style, Blake enjoys partnering with clients and teams to solve complex delivery challenges and create strong outcomes for communities.”