The New South Wales Government has announced the formation of a new Independent Water advisory Panel responsible for providing expert advice on securing long-term water supplies for the Lower Hunter.

 

“The Lower Hunter Water Plan is a vital planning project that will help ensure water security for the region’s 500,000 plus residents,” State Minister for Finance and Services Greg Pearce said.

 

The Panel members include:

 

  • Mr Chris Davis (Chair) – extensive experience in water management and National Water Commissioner.
  • Prof. George Kuczera (Member) – leading expertise in hydrology and water engineering.
  • Dr Wej Paradice (Member) – extensive background in natural resource management and river health.
  • Ms Kylie Cochrane (Member) – expertise in communication and community engagement, including in the urban water sector.
  • Mr Ross Chapman (Member) – extensive experience in water resource economics.
  • Prof. Cynthia Mitchell (Member) – broad experience in water planning and decentralised water systems.
  • Dr Tony Church (Member) – strong background in environmental flows and water quality.

 

“The Panel includes two Hunter-based members, Professor George Kuczera and Dr Wej Paradice, whose regional expertise and insights will ensure the representation of local knowledge on this high-level advisory body is achieved,” Mr Pearce said.

 

“The Metropolitan Water Directorate will lead this process, having demonstrated experience in water planning for major urban centres including the Sydney Metropolitan Water Plan, which has secured supplies until 2025 and beyond.

 

“The Panel’s first tasks will be to provide advice on the proposed planning framework and oversee finalisation of a comprehensive community engagement strategy,” Mr Pearce said.