MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to have the opportunity today to welcome a new entity among
Australian non-government organisations - WaterAid Australia.
The formation of WaterAid Australia is the far-sighted response of
Australia's water industry to one of the most important development aid
issues in our region and complements the aid program's water policy.
Continuing population growth and the need to pursue economic investment to
reduce poverty is placing growing pressure on the region's natural
resources and environment.
Water is of critical importance. The Australian Government is
committed to improving the management of water resources in our region through
building stronger local, national and regional collaboration.
Modelled on its UK counterpart, which has been operating with increasing
success for some 20 years, WaterAid Australia is a voluntary coalition of more
than 50 of the nation's water authorities, big and small, private water
businesses and professional and employers associations.
Representing nearly 90 per cent of our population, the formation of WaterAid
Australia provides an important national community framework through which to
advance better management of water resources in our region.
The new body represents a new and valuable partnership opportunity for the
Government, and for ordinary Australians, that has a clear potential to help
millions of people in our region.
Mr Downer will launch WaterAid Australia at Parliament House at 11.30 am today
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's Office) 0419 206 890
AusAID (Public Affairs) 0417 680 590