The Goyder Institute for Water Research was established in 2010 to support the security and management of South Australia’s water supply and contribute to water reform in Australia.

The Institute brings together South Australia’s leading water research capabilities, in collaboration with CSIRO, into a single, comprehensive research program aimed at providing expert, independent scientific advice that informs good policy decision-making, identifies future threats to water security and assists in an integrated approach to water management.

It is intended that the Goyder Institute will enhance the South Australian Government’s existing capacity to develop and deliver science based policy solutions and in doing so, underpin the sustainable development of the State. It is further intended that this will also strengthen the State’s position as an international leader in water resource management and provide the South Australian community with confidence that the best scientific minds available are being targeted at resolving the State’s key water resource management issues.

Historically, South Australia has relied on three rain-dependent sources of water – the River Murray, Mt Lofty Ranges and groundwater. However, like much of the southern regions of the continent, many areas of South Australia have experienced a decline in surface water flows and groundwater levels over the past decade compared to long term averages. This has resulted in an increased threat to the security of water supplies for regional communities, industry and the environment. With projected impacts of climate change indicating a generally drier outlook, the State is facing increased water scarcity.

South Australia’s future economic growth and resilience is dependent on the provision of sustainable water supplies. In recognition of this, South Australia’s Strategic Plan 2007 has a target requiring that ‘South Australia’s water resources are managed within sustainable limits by 2018’. The sustainable management of water resources, and those resources yet to be developed, will require strategic alliances between Government, communities and industry, to ensure effective working partnerships for optimal utilisation of all resources.

Underwater photography by Liz Rogers, http://lizrogersphotography.com

Other images courtesy of CSIRO Science Image, Claire Punter, Michele Akeroyd, DEWNR, Sam Noonan Photographer.