ISF at the forefront of Australia’s water future

This year’s Ozwater conference (20 to 22 May) took the opportunity to reflect on water’s past, while considering its crucial role in sustainable growth. Professor Juliet Willetts of ISF’s International Development team delivered the opening keynote address, exploring how the Australian water sector continues to be shaped by its public health roots and emphasising why those foundations matter more than ever in today's world. Her presentation drew on ISF’s leading research in wastewater management, water, sanitation and hygiene, and rural water challenges. 
 
ISF Research Consultant Alexandra Butler collaborated with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water CCEEW and BMT on a presentation introducing a non-residential water efficiency handbook aimed at assisting water utilities with managing business water demand. In line with recent ISF research, the presentation highlights the drivers, barriers, and benefits of engaging with the business sector and provided an accessible and practical guide on successfully selecting, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating water efficiency initiatives. 
 
ISF Research Director Associate Professor Dr Simon Fane led a workshop with Alexandra Butler that focused on the future of smart water devices in Australian homes. The workshop discussed emerging smart technologies like smart plumbing fixtures, rainwater tanks, AI-driven greywater systems, and high-resolution smart meters with machine learning. It delved into the potential and challenges of these new technologies, as well as their implications for customers, utilities, and Government.
 
To round off ISF’s involvement, the multi-award-winning SiMPACT project was among other nominees for the OzWater’25 National Water Research Award.