Page 4652 - Week 13 - Wednesday, 27 November 2019
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between the relevant experts and stakeholders and the ACT government to ensure that we are taking the most effective and efficient approach towards ACT’s water security. This consultation is particularly important in light of Australia’s current overall water problems and the worsening conditions of our climate. It will be beneficial for the government to consult with experts in this field.
Madam Speaker, one of the wonderful things about being in the ACT is that we have access to fantastic academics, particularly from the Australian National University and the University of Canberra. In preparing this motion, I wanted to do my research. I recently met with Professor Quentin Grafton. I am pleased to say that Professor Grafton is present in the chamber today. I thank him so much for his presence here. Professor Grafton is a professor of economics, ANU Public Policy Fellow, Fellow of the Asia and the Pacific Policy Society and Director of the Centre for Water Economics, Environment and Policy.
I also met with Ross Thompson, who is a professor of water science and the Director and Chair of Water Science in the Institute for Applied Ecology at the University of Canberra. In fact, it is wonderful to see him also here today. Professor Thompson and the University of Canberra are making fantastic strides in this field, with their own centre for applied water science to be opened in January next year. I am sure it will deliver excellent research and practical outcomes.
The theme from chatting with both professors is that in the ACT our population is growing and temperature increases around the world are impacting evaporation rates and the availability of water. The way that we plan our cities was also discussed. This included choosing water efficient trees and plantings around our city and the importance of green space, as well as significant capital works.
The street and home level side of things was also discussed, such as having water tanks in our suburbs. What was clear from these discussions is that the ACT is tracking well. However, it is sensible to be looking toward the future, as we cannot just hope for the best. It was wonderful to speak to these water experts who have excellent insights into our water systems and the ACT water strategy 2014–44: striking the balance. I would like to relay my appreciation to them for their advice.
Madam Speaker, earlier I outlined the water consumption we all use daily. Considering this, it is important not only to know that it is up to government to put in infrastructure to use water in a more efficient way but that our community is aware of the value of water from a young age and that we have a culture of sustainable water use. I grew up living with water restrictions my whole life in India. It taught me the value of water, but most importantly it showed me that small steps that we all take can significantly reduce water stress.
It is also important that we understand the value of water from a young age, from when children are in school. There should be an awareness campaign that many parts of the world will live in water stress conditions and that it is important to be cognisant of this. One of my favourite parts about being an MLA is visiting schools in my electorate. When I meet these incredibly bright students, I feel all the more empowered to leave a positive future for them. Something I hope to be doing in the
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