Australia’s Water Goes Digital with New Global-Local Pact

Global firm Qatium teams up with Australia’s 3-Xi to launch digital water pilots across the country

14 Oct 2025

Global water technology company Qatium has partnered with Australian firm 3-Xi to pilot smart water management tools across the country, marking a step towards greater digital adoption in the nation’s water utilities.

Announced in April 2025, the collaboration seeks to tackle persistent challenges in Australia’s water sector, including aging infrastructure, climate variability, and the demand for efficient resource use, through real-time network monitoring and predictive analytics.

Qatium’s platform, already deployed in Europe and North America, uses data to improve system visibility, detect leaks, and forecast demand. Under the partnership, 3-Xi will apply its local expertise to adapt these technologies to Australian operating and regulatory conditions.

“This partnership allows us to localize advanced solutions for Australia’s specific operational and regulatory environment,” said Qatium’s chief technology officer. A 3-Xi spokesperson added that the alliance aims to turn “proven digital tools into practical benefits for local utilities.”

Analysts view the move as part of a broader shift towards data-driven infrastructure. Digital uptake in Australia’s water sector has been slow, in part due to fragmented utility structures and complex state regulations. Industry observers suggest that partnerships blending international experience with local knowledge may help overcome such barriers.

Pilot projects are already being explored in regional areas, including initiatives highlighted during a recent SWAN Qatium webinar featuring Leeton Shire Council. Early interest from smaller utilities indicates momentum behind digital transformation efforts.

The initiative aligns with national goals to enhance resilience and cybersecurity in essential services. If successful, the pilots could form a model for scaling digital water management across the country.

While still in its early stages, the Qatium and 3-Xi collaboration underscores how technology partnerships can support smarter, more adaptive water systems in a changing climate.