The National Water Commission (NWC) has released two annual reports on the performance of Australia’s urban water utilities and rural water service providers.

 

Releasing the two reports, Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, Senator Don Farrell said the wet conditions of the last two years, following severe drought, demonstrates the challenge of delivering water services in Australia.

 

"The urban report shows that the water industry is performing well in delivering water and wastewater services to 18.7 million Australians, including very high quality drinking water.

 

"The rural report demonstrates that investment in infrastructure renewal to modernise irrigation networks and install new metering technologies is boosting efficiency and reducing water losses."

The report found that water availability had increased dramatically over the 2010-11 period, with major flooding offsetting the prolonged period of drought suffered by the country.

 

Acting Chair of the National Water Commission, Stuart Bunn said, "Australia's water service providers and jurisdictions provide vital leadership in developing these reports.

 

"The Australian water sector has a chance to take stock before storages are again tested by drought. Although considerable gains have been made, we need renewed and forward-looking reform to ensure our water supplies remain safe and reliable.

 

"In particular, the Commission believes there is scope for further reforms that set clearer water security objectives, promote better customer choice, and send clearer price signals."

 

The report found that the period of intense drought, which preceded last year’s wet conditions prompted further infrastructure spending in the water sector, which has greatly contributed to water security and availability.

 

The full annual report can be found here

http://www.nwc.gov.au/publications/annual-reports/2010-11