Australia’s Big Bet on Digital Water

AI-driven partnerships are turning Australia into a global model for smarter, more sustainable water management

5 Nov 2025

Australia’s water industry is riding a wave of digital transformation. Technology leaders, utilities, and researchers are working together to modernize how the nation manages its most vital resource. The collaborations mark a confident step toward smarter, more resilient water networks.

Schneider Electric is deepening its role in this shift, teaming up with Australian utilities and research hubs, including the ARC Research Hub for the Internet of Things for Water, which secured renewed funding in mid-2024. These partnerships are exploring how artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and cloud analytics can spot leaks early, cut energy use, and boost efficiency. For utilities battling drought, aging pipes, and rising demand, the promise of cost savings and operational resilience is significant.

The timing could not be better. Around the world, climate volatility and stricter environmental rules are pushing cities to digitize their water systems. At the Australian Smart Water Utilities 2025 forum, one analyst observed that the sector is “finally entering its digital era,” with utilities increasingly relying on predictive insights to guide maintenance and reduce water loss.

This surge in collaboration is also fueling homegrown innovation. Australian startups in IoT and analytics are joining forces with major infrastructure firms to test and scale new technologies. Projects within the ARC Hub are developing ultra-low-power sensors and AI-enabled monitoring tools for real-time water quality tracking, blending engineering know-how with data science.

Challenges remain: legacy systems, cybersecurity gaps, and the need for a digitally skilled workforce. Yet, the momentum is clear. “Every step toward smarter technology is a step toward stronger environmental and economic outcomes,” said one utility executive.

By uniting innovation and foresight, Australia is charting a new course for global water sustainability, proving that when it comes to managing water, intelligence may be the most powerful resource of all.