Productivity commission inquiry to help future-proof Australia's water services

The Albanese Government has tasked the Productivity Commission to lead a new national water inquiry, focussed on keeping Australia’s water secure and affordable, while making the sector more productive and sustainable in the long term. The inquiry will inform government work to refresh Australia’s national water pricing and independent economic regulation guidance over the next two years.

It will be undertaken by Commissioner Joanne Chong, who has extensive experience in sustainable resource management and water issues. Ms Chong will be supported by environmental and resources economist Dr Paul Wywroll. Associate Commissioner Wywroll is a Research Fellow at the ANU Institute for Water Futures working on the economics and governance of water systems in Australia and the Asia-Pacific.

The inquiry will also carry out its statutory role in the Water Act 2007 and independently assess progress of governments in implementing the 2004 National Water Initiative, which provides the current blueprint for the sustainable management of Australia’s water resources. The Albanese Government has been working with State and Territory Governments to develop a new National Water Agreement, which builds on the strengths of the 20-year-old National Water Initiative (NWI) to address current and future water challenges.

The PC will be inviting public feedback on the inquiry through its website in the coming weeks. The final report is due to the Treasurer by 4 September 2026. Learn more about the Productivity Commission’s national water inquiry: www.pc.gov.au/inquiries-and-research/water-reform-2026/ We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.