Watertrust Australia’s bold mission into improving policy process

Water is quite possibly the most precious resource in Australia, the driest inhabited continent on the planet, which is why it has felt like important work to assist Watertrust Australia in its work.

I’ve been fascinated to become involved in Watertrust, a major philanthropy-driven endeavour, where I’ve been able to assist with the language and comms that the organisation uses to speak to the many varied stakeholders, as well as introducing itself to the wider public.

The organisation is a great example of major philanthropic bodies, such as the Myer Foundation and the Ian Potter Foundation, really stepping into the policy space, pledging large, long-term funds and support to create independent entities that can assist governments in formulating better ongoing policy for the nation’s future.

It’s a growing area, removed from the more reactionary support for charities to help people in need now. The aim of Watertrust Australia is to guide better process for government as well as all the people, entities, and stakeholders involved in debating future policy, to arrive at the best possible outcome. Because it is fully funded through philanthropy, it can be completely independent and unaligned to any specific outcome, giving it a unique role in the process.

I met Watertrust’s executives when I wrote an article for Philanthropy Australia’s ‘Inspiring Stories of Giving, Volume 1 late in 2023. Now I’m happy to consult to them in an ongoing role to craft their messaging and language.

I am also learning A LOT about the very complex and divisive world of water management. I love my job.

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