First Nations water engagement

We work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through a range of policies, projects and programs. This includes engagement that supports reviews of Water Plans, Regional Water Assessments, and work underway with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councils to deliver clean drinking water infrastructure.

Through the water planning process, we engage with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples to understand their cultural water needs and social and economic aspirations.

Taking time to listen

In 2023 and 2024, we embarked on a pilot engagement program centred on on-Country listening to Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We listened to Elders and community leaders and heard stories about why water is important to them.

This journey was about listening to stories, views and aspirations about water. We took time to listen and learn about their connections to Country and what water means to mob.

We asked our contacts to introduce us to their Elders, Keepers of Knowledge, and community members.

We asked people to meet and yarn with us and invited them to choose where. Places we met ranged from formal meeting rooms, on a verandah, in a house, under a tree, or in a café - wherever people felt safe and comfortable to share their stories.

What we have heard

Every First Nations person has unique life experiences and stories to share. However, we have heard some common themes.