Latest news
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Connectivity and consultation
09 February 2026
Political theatrics and point-scoring can crowd out the big policy issues that impact communities. In this video, CEO Karen Hutchinson reflects on new research that identifies that tension and explains why it matters right now, with the Basin Plan Review consultation underway. Karen also flags what’s ahead in this edition, including engaging earlier, connectivity, welcoming new Board member Kinjia Munkara-Murray.
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Local stories are informing Snowy water discussions
22 August 2025
Peter Horne and the Watertrust Upper Murrumbidgee team have been filming local voices to capture what matters now for the river. A clear message is coming through. Act now to protect and repair, and plan for generations ahead. Peter explains why he is filming and how the stories reflect local priorities for water. He is listening for common threads across different perspectives and making room for detail that is often missed. The result is a grounded picture of what people value and what they want to see happen next.
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What Basin-wide research reveals about fairness in water policy
22 July 2025
New research commissioned by Watertrust Australia has provided new insights into how Australians think about fairness in water policy. The preliminary findings highlight not just what people believe, but why those beliefs differ and where common ground might be found.
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A Young Voice, A Clear Direction
17 July 2025
After six months with Watertrust, Mikayla Hyland-Wood is heading to Oxford, carrying with her the questions, insights, and confidence sparked during her time on the team.
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Doing the hard work, where it matters most
16 July 2025
What does real engagement look like when the issues are complex and the community is weary? Chris Cumming explains why Watertrust is showing up where it matters most.
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Trust takes time and so does lasting change
14 July 2025
Dr Deb Nias is the CEO of the Murray Darling Wetlands Working Group, Chair of Watertrust’s Influence Advisory Committee and one our Directors. She has over two decades of experience working with landholders, First Nations leaders, scientists and government, and remains a trusted voice across the Basin. Deb has strong views about trust and collaboration, and she shares some hard-earned wisdom about what it really takes to make water policy work.
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Honouring leadership, looking ahead
18 June 2025
This edition of our newsletter is a little special. We farewell a founding Director, celebrate a national honour, and share reflections from recent work in the Upper Murrumbidgee, Lower Balonne, and Beetaloo Basin. Across very different landscapes and communities, a common thread continues to emerge about the importance of relationships and the value of being part of conversations that help shape what comes next.