Create a national framework

Infrastructure Australia considers there is an opportunity for the Australian Government, in collaboration with states and territories, to play a greater leadership role in promoting best practice in water policy.

A national water security framework would make the agreed definition for water security operational and create a clear vision for the water sector. It would allow Australia to assess progress towards water security, identify growth opportunities, mitigate risks and support economic prosperity.

The framework should become the authoritative approach to assessing water supply versus needs over time. It would form the basis of national growth strategies and infrastructure planning, helping the Australian Government and state and territory governments to develop stronger business cases for significant investment.

To support the framework, governments would need to invest in robust scientific data, including climate and hydrology information.

Infrastructure Australia considers that implementing a national water security framework should include seven major pillars (see Figure 6.1). A national water security framework based on these pillars would set a clear vision for water security and an approach to understanding Australia's water security risks, as well as identifying opportunities.

Figure 6.1: Australia needs a national water security framework based on seven pillars