• The majority (82%) of Australia's urban water supply is from surface water, which is highly dependent on rainfall. As shifts in rainfall patterns due to changes in climate are likely, a move beyond climate-dependent water sources is needed. All water supply options must be on the table.
• By 2031, Australia's population is expected to reach close to 29 million.30 Currently, more than 70% of people live in cities,31 so demand on existing water and wastewater infrastructure will grow, and so will pressure on the waterways that receive treated effluent.
• Population growth will also increase demand for water-reliant features in the urban environment, including green and blue infrastructure, which support human health and wellbeing.
• A focus on liveability and resilience to future stresses will be critical to maintain cities as major economic generators - Australia's major cities contribute nearly 80% of the national GDP.32
• Governments must accelerate progress towards better integrating water management, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and establishing sustainable funding arrangements based on water cycle and circular economy principles.
• The 2019 Audit identified that urban water and wastewater infrastructure is deteriorating and ageing. Ensuring knowledge is shared across the sector and having access to these resources through greater collaboration is key to managing ageing assets and meeting future expectations.
• As outlined in the 2019 Audit, the commitment to provide safe drinking water has not been achieved in many remote communities. Governments must deliver fit-for-purpose, fit-for-place and fit-for-people water services to Australians living in remote and isolated communities using approaches that recognise and respond to the specific conditions in these parts of the country.
• Although reactive initiatives that respond to drought and other scarcity events are effective in rapidly reducing water use, they are less effective in creating lasting changes in behaviour. Communities that understand the full value of water will drive efficient behaviours and attitudes, not just when water is scarce, but also when it is plentiful.