Mainstreaming Water Sensitive Cities in Australia: from research to practice to results

Embedding water sensitive practices as the new normal

Mainstreaming describes the activities that shift new practices from being novel to becoming embedded as a new-normal practice.

Building on more than a decade of impact (2021–2025)

Our goal is to reach a point where large numbers of cities and towns are planned and built using water sensitive cities practices.
The Water Sensitive Cities Australia Mainstreaming Program Phase 1 set out to bring water sensitive practices into everyday urban planning and development around Australia, translating evidence into practice. Building on the legacy of the Cooperative Research Centre for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC), the program delivered measurable value to partners, fostered national networks, and generated practical tools and guidance now used across Australia.
Check out our Australian projects

Advancing water sensitive practice in Australia through collaboration (2026–beyond)

Having completed Phase 1, WSCA continues to advance the transition towards water sensitive cities under a limited partnership and fee-for-service model, working with partners across Australia to translate research into action. Our mission remains the same: fostering new collaborations, demonstrating impact and maintaining selected tools to help cities and towns apply water sensitive principles to policy, planning, and investment.
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Our fee for service offerings:
1. Individual and multi-jurisdictional projects
We are available to work with government agencies, water utilities and councils to apply WSC principles, practices and approaches in all contexts including water management, urban planning, catchment management and resilience programs.
2. Capacity building
We can offer training, accreditation and workshops to help equip professionals with the knowledge and confidence to apply WSC principles, practices and approaches effectively. Build capability and champion change in your organisation.
3. Tools support

We continue to maintain and support the adoption of selected WSC tools, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible for practitioners everywhere.

4. Advisory services
Our team provides tailored advice and project support, from strategy development to implementation planning, helping organisations make water sensitive decisions that deliver lasting community and environmental benefits.
Stay connected

Stay informed about WSCA projects, training opportunities and events advancing the water sensitive cities movement.

Together, we can continue to build water sensitive, climate-resilient cities.