Context

Institute for Land, Water and Society

Australia 's prosperity has been built on the use of our considerable natural heritage. At the same time, land clearing, river regulation, farming practices, industrial development, urbanisation and the introduction of non-indigenous plants and animals have adversely affected our biodiversity, river health and water quality, as well as contributing to increased salinity and soil acidity. Some of these problems now threaten the society which has grown in our rural environment.

Our regional, rural and remote communities are undergoing significant restructuring including changes to population, employment opportunities, and infrastructure. There are increasing differences between rural and regional communities and their urban counterparts on a number of social indicators.

These issues are attracting attention from communities, governments and industry. The way governments operate is changing. Communities are looking to themselves and their regions as well as to governments. Substantial funds are being invested in the regions where CSU operates through plans developed by the Catchment Management Authorities. However, despite increased investment in programs such as Caring for our Country; the National Water Initiative; the Australian Government Water Fund; The Living Murray; Water for a Health Country and Better Regions, there may not be sufficient resources to address many issues, protect all important assets and ensure that livelihoods and lifestyles are not compromised. Priorities need to be established.

ILWS has the research capacity and the commitment to partnership building that is essential to safeguard our biodiversity and water assets and ensure our regional communities achieve more sustainable futures.