Latest news

With strong local knowledge and deep relationships, Watertrust’s Kate Peake continues to support Territory-specific approaches to water planning. In this update, she reflects on how recent engagement with the NT Government is opening up space for patient, practical progress; and why building trust is essential to getting it right.

Watertrust Principal Mike Peat brings deep experience and a grounded, collaborative approach to some of the challenges in the Basin. With long-standing relationships across governments, communities and industry, Mike is focusing on listening first, before helping to shape practical, aligned outcomes. In this article, Mike shares why it’s less about the plan, and more about the planning; and why getting the conditions right early can open up space for real progress.

Paul McLaughlin grows watermelons 370km north of Alice Springs, in the Northern Territory. Paul saw first-hand how differing perspectives and shifting processes create confusion, distrust, and frustration. What changed? A different approach – one based on listening, consistency, and neutrality.

Greater Adelaide, home to over 1.5 million people and contributing to some 80% of South Australia’s economic activity, faces mounting water challenges.

Climate change, population growth, ageing infrastructure, and increasing community expectations are straining a water management system that was not designed to meet today’s needs. Without reform, water security, liveability, and community wellbeing will come under increasing pressure.

Real change in water governance happens when diverse voices come together. Watertrust has been working alongside communities, governments, and experts to strengthen collaboration and ensure water policy decisions reflect a broad range of perspectives. From the long-awaited SWIOID review to major insights on water governance in Adelaide, momentum is building. Karen shares some of our latest successes, how we’re strengthening our team, and what’s ahead as we continue to support inclusive, solutions-focused water policy.

Fairness in water policy isn’t a simple concept – it means different things to different people. Farmers, environmental groups, First Nations communities, and governments each have their own perspectives on what’s just and equitable when it comes to water. But how do these views shape the policies that affect us all? A new report from Watertrust Australia dives into more than 1,800 submissions, parliamentary debates, and social media discussions to reveal how fairness is framed in water policy, and why it matters.