Tailoring Water Services in Remote and Isolated Indigenous Australian Communities

Abstract

Freshwater is an essential global resource, but climate change and human development have degraded the quality and quantity of freshwater. A large percentage of the global population is experiencing water stress from water scarcity leading governments and organizations around the globe to re-evaluate their water management plans. However, these plans do not always address the needs and concerns of Indigenous populations who face a variety of challenges stemming from historical disadvantages. Indigenous Australians are one such group whose well-being is impacted by water stress and experiences issues with water services. This study examines if certain water use drivers can be considered when water providers create and implement management plans to offer sustainable services to remote and isolated Indigenous communities. Statistical findings do not show significant overall patterning in drivers for water use, indicating that service providers need to tailor water services with cultural, social, economic, and environmental considerations of individual Indigenous Australian communities.