In the latest episode of the Accelerating Action podcast, Shaun Kempton (National Water Manager) and Melissa Mellado Ruiz (Business Development Manager) from John Holland sit down with host Jo Taranto to discuss resilience and adaptation in the context of water infrastructure. 

In an era marked by unprecedented environmental challenges, the water industry faces significant hurdles that demand innovative and resilient solutions. Resilience could be described as the ability to create robustness and flexibility within systems, allowing for a versatile response to change. This concept is crucial in an industry where reliance on a single point of failure can lead to catastrophic consequences. In essence, resilience involves having multiple options to respond to various outcomes, ensuring that systems are not only durable but also adaptable. 

Challenges in the water industry 

The water industry in Australia faces significant challenges that require urgent attention, as highlighted by Shaun. "There are massive challenges coming up," he noted, pointing to an ageing asset base that has been in service for extended periods. This, coupled with and broader sectoral shifts, places immense pressure on water infrastructure. The shift from traditional transport and rail infrastructure to energy and water sectors adds another layer of complexity. This transition demands innovative solutions and adaptability to meet new demands. 

Melissa Mellado Ruiz highlighted the dual pressures impacting water infrastructure. She mentioned the acute shocks of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and bushfires, which strain existing systems. Additionally, "urbanisation and the growth of population" are slow stresses that continually exert pressure on water assets. These dynamics require a mix of solutions that are tailored to specific challenges. 

Collaborative approaches and projects 

Collaboration emerges as a key strategy in building resilience. Melissa emphasised the importance of working closely with clients and stakeholders, saying, "It's about looking at it from a collaborative perspective." By engaging with various partners, John Holland aims to develop solutions that transcend the boundaries of individual water utilities and create synergies across the market. 

Shaun shared insights into specific projects that exemplify this collaborative approach. He mentioned their work in the desalination space, noting, "We're very proud of the two desalination plants that we've built on the Gold Coast and in Sydney." These plants, soon to be expanded, address the challenges of growth and resilience. The Belmont desalination project and the proposed Northern Water Project in South Australia further illustrate John Holland's commitment to enhancing water infrastructure. 

In addition to desalination, the shift toward purified recycled water is gaining momentum. Shaun expressed excitement about the Upper South Creek project for Sydney Water, describing it as "very large, technologically advanced," and a potential pioneer in Australia's water management landscape. 

Opportunities, risks and advice for industry stakeholders 

While the water sector presents numerous opportunities, it also involves risks that must be navigated carefully. Shaun emphasised the importance of a values-based approach, stating, "It's a space that we see a lot of opportunity to leave a lasting social impact." Projects must consider the entire lifecycle, from design and construction to operation, to ensure sustainable solutions. 

Melissa offered practical advice for other utilities and stakeholders: continue fostering collaboration and sharing best practices. She noted that while solutions may vary by region, learning from successful initiatives can inspire innovative approaches tailored to specific contexts. 

Shaun added the importance of clarity in project goals and valuation. He advised, "Be clear about the outcomes that you're seeking and how you value projects." By understanding what customers value and aligning project metrics accordingly, stakeholders can ensure more effective decision-making. 

As the sector grapples with the pressures of climate change, urbanisation, and legislative shifts, collaboration and innovation are key to building resilient and adaptable water systems. By embracing these principles, the water sector can ensure reliable and sustainable resources for the future. 

Thank you to our host Jo Taranto and our guests, Shaun Kempton and Melissa Mellado Ruiz for their time.