Water’s True Worth: Affordability, Equity and the Future We’re Building
Water is essential to life, public health, economic prosperity and environmental resilience, yet we often take it for granted. As the challenges of climate change, population growth and ageing infrastructure continue to mount, difficult questions are emerging:
Are we paying enough for the water security we expect?
How do we balance affordability today with investment for future generations?
And does the price of water truly reflect its value?
Join us for a lively and thought-provoking debate as industry leaders tackle one of the sector’s most pressing questions:
“Australia’s water sector must stop prioritising affordability and start pricing water at its true value.”
This debate will explore the tensions between intergenerational equity, affordability, efficiency and long-term water security, challenging conventional thinking about who pays, who benefits, and what we owe future generations.
Expect robust discussion, diverse perspectives and audience participation as we examine how the sector can deliver lasting value while keeping water accessible to all.
Whether you work in utilities, government, consulting, research or advocacy, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Who should bear the cost of tomorrow’s water security and what is water really worth?
Setting the scene with an opening provocation will be Cynthia Mitchell AO from the Peter Cullen Water and Environment Trust, challenging us to think differently about how we value water and the choices we make for future generations.
Guiding the discussion will be facilitator James Skene, Water Market Leader at GHD.
And then of course, there are our debaters.
Meet the industry leaders who will take the stage to argue for and against the proposition. Which side will they be on? We're keeping that under wraps until the night and there may be a few surprises along the way.
Will they convince you? Will you change your mind? There's only one way to find out.
William Speirs Senior Manager- Digital strategy and Planning Urban Utilities |
Jacqui Hallchurch Business Group Leader - Sustainability Advisory QLD – Sustainability
GHD |
Cheryl Desha School of Engineering and Built Environment, Sciences Group Griffith University |
Sophie Guest Director KPMG |
YWP - to be confirmed
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TBC |
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday 2 September, 2026
- Time: 5:00pm check in for 5.30pm start (AEST)
- Location: GHD Brisbane: Level 8, 145 Ann St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
or Join us ONLINE
Event Details
| Date |
2 September, 2026
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| Time - AEST |
5.00pm - Check in 5.30pm - Presentations and Q&A 7.00pm - Networking
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| Venue |
GHD Brisbane Level 8, 145 Ann St, Brisbane City QLD or Join us ONLINE Individual & Boardroom Passes available
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Registration
Register now to attend in person or online.