Water in remote communities

Having enough water, of reasonable quality, reliable infrastructure, technical support and good management strategies is essential for supporting good health, well being and economic development in Indigenous communities

Of the several hundred small communities across Australia, most rely on ground water (bores), some use surface water (rivers, dams) and many use rainwater tanks for drinking water. Residents of small communities need to know how much water they can sustainably use, how to keep water quality good, how to maintain the infrastructure, get support when needed and keep costs down and skills up.

Larger communities have town supplies which are usually the responsibility of State or Territory utility companies. Residents of these communities and the agencies that work with them need information and ideas about sustainable water use, managing risks and technologies.

CAT works with community members and a range of government and non-government organisations such as Councils and resource Agencies to develop effective approaches that ensure basic water supplies are functioning well and meeting the needs and aspirations of residents. CAT's work includes research and community based programs in the areas of:

•  Water quantity and quality
• Water supply management
• Water system reliability
• Technical advice and support
• Training and capacity building
• Evaluation

 Further reading and useful resources and links are available by clicking on the Research, Resources or Services menu.