A new report that sets out three reform options to ensure Australia's water sector has been released by the National Water Commission.

 

The Review of urban water quality regulation in Australia report finds that recent advances in science and technology and today's more diversified water sources are presenting new challenges to water quality regulation and management.

 

According to the report, some decisions are being made without a full appreciation of the longer-term risks and costs. In other instances, existing regulation is stifling innovation.

 

The National Water Commission calls for a fresh look at the arrangements for safeguarding our urban water quality. They need to be sufficiently flexible to keep pace with new technologies.

 

More collaboration is needed to take into account the broader spectrum of water quality, water quantity, energy and land-use planning interests.

 

The Commission also argues that policy-makers should focus on achieving greater consistency and more efficient management in regulating urban water quality. 

 

The Review of urban water quality regulation in Australia was developed following consultation with peak industry groups, government agencies, the private sector and academic experts. 

 

Together with three supporting technical reports, this review was developed to inform debate and contribute to future reform efforts.

 

More information is here.