The department hosted members of the Committee on Aboriginal Water Interests (CAWI) in a joint meeting, together with representatives from DWER’s Aboriginal Water and Environment Advisory Group (AWEAG).
Along with staff from the Commonwealth’s Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water, DWER staff provided valuable insights on water management in Western Australia, opportunities through native title and the modernisation and drafting of Western Australia’s water legislation to improve opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to have access to water and participate in water management.
CAWI, with its national focus, complements the ongoing efforts of each jurisdiction at the state and local levels to advance water reform in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. CAWI plays a pivotal role in influencing national water reform by advocating for investments, policy formulation, and progress in Aboriginal Water Interests across their respective jurisdictions.
The joint meeting aimed to facilitate a meaningful discussion on water management and reform in Western Australia, within the broader context of national water reform.
“It fostered connections, promoted knowledge exchange, and provided invaluable guidance from an enhanced national Aboriginal perspective to inform legislative reforms by the Western Australian government,” Jillian Collard, Manager of Aboriginal Engagement and Partnership with DWER, said.
The department’s Director General Michelle Andrews added that members shared stories and learnings from their own work in various fields of water management and legislation.
“We had great discussions, constructive commentary, and there was a lot for us all to reflect on and learn from,” Ms Andrews said.
“This collaborative gathering marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote equitable and sustainable water management practices while embracing the invaluable contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
“The department remains committed to working closely with Aboriginal leaders, CAWI, and AWEAG to drive positive change in water management and reform across the nation.”
The meeting started with a ceremonial introduction on the picturesque banks of Doondalup, also known as Lake Joondalup, with its Noongar name meaning 'the lake that glistens.'
This sacred site holds deep spiritual significance due to its connections to Dreamtime and its historical role as a prominent hunting ground for water birds and turtles.
AWEAG, which is co-chaired by Ms Andrews and Jason Barrow (a proud Nyoongar man from the South West of Western Australia) was established with the goal of ensuring that Aboriginal knowledge, values, and needs receive due consideration and appropriate attention in DWER’s strategies, policies, programs, and planning related to the management and regulation of the state's environment and water resources.
The Co-Chairs of CAWI complimented the department on AWEAG, as no other jurisdiction has a similar body operating. It was noted as a model for other states to follow.
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