The transition to a circular economy requires the collaboration of diverse sectors, with the aim of creating sustainable systems that eliminate waste, enhance the regeneration of natural resources, and build resilient industries.
The Circular Water Taskforce—in partnership with the Australian Water Association (AWA)—brings together stakeholders from the water sector to promote the adoption of circular principles. These principles focus on the sustainable management of water resources, reducing water waste, and creating closed-loop systems for water use across industries and communities.
Taskforce Objectives
The Circular Water Taskforce aims to accelerate the integration of circular economy principles within Australia’s water sector by fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry leaders, government bodies, and research institutions. The Taskforce’s purpose is to:
- Influence national water management policies and practices to align with circular economy objectives.
- Provide/Inform a “State of Play” regarding the progress of the water sector in embedding circular water management practices, including the efficient use, reuse, and regeneration of water resources.
- Advocate for and create awareness and use of national frameworks and funding opportunities (incentives, grant schemes, etc.) that will enhance implementation and longer-term financial sustainability of circular economy solutions.
- Identify and advocate for cross-sector opportunities for water reuse where water is a critical commodity (e.g., other utility sectors, agriculture, food, manufacturing, and mining) in urban and regional contexts.
- Align Circular Water objectives with those of the other Circular Australia Taskforces to ensure a holistic approach to planning and implementation of circular economy principles across Australia.
The Taskforce will work closely with the broader circular economy framework, ensuring that water management is central to the objectives of waste elimination, material circulation, and ecological regeneration.
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Water Taskforce Partners
Taskforce Co-Chairs
Circular Australia Taskforces, led by honorary Co-Chairs, are removing barriers and activating new opportunities across Australia’s economic sectors.
Co-Chairs are appointed by Circular Australia and are outstanding leaders from industry, government, and research. Their expertise and deep commitment are essential to Australia’s transition to a circular economy, enabling problem-solving, barrier removal, and new opportunities in partnership with taskforce members and the broader community of practice.
Nicola has over 20 years’ experience managing complex science, research and development programs for industry and government. She has worked across multiple industry sectors including agribusiness, health, biotechnology, creative industries and for over 15 years in the water industry. Nicola has had a long-term involvement in assessing the impacts of climate change on infrastructure, business operations and community for the water industry.
Dr Di Lorenzo is the Managing Director of Melbourne Water, which provides drinking water, treats wastewater, and manages catchments in the greater Melbourne region. She holds extensive experience in the water and local government sectors, including as CEO of Merri-bek City Council for five years, preceded by holding infrastructure executive portfolios. Dr Di Lorenzo commenced her early career in the oil industry working on the platforms in Bass Strait.
Taskforce Management
Taskforces are guided by Circular Australia’s Communications & Engagement Manager and CEO. Taskforces meet quarterly to set ambitious agendas aimed at achieving a circular economy by 2035.
Lisa McLean is a leader in circular economy and zero-carbon business transformation, serving as Managing Director and CEO of Circular Australia. She has over 20 years’ experience advising industry and governments in the UK and Australia, developing policy frameworks and regulations that enable the transition to a circular, zero-carbon economy. Her work spans supply chains, infrastructure, energy, water, waste, and mobility sectors.
As Communications & Engagement Manager, Emma Lundaahl leads the delivery of communications across the Circular Australia network. She ensures members are connected, informed, and engaged by sharing resources, insights, and opportunities. Emma also drives the annual engagement strategy to deepen collaboration and activate meaningful participation across the network.
Taskforce Downloads
Get Involved
Join industry leaders driving Australia’s circular economy forward. Be part of Circular Australia’s expert taskforces and help shape real change.