Karlene Maywald, South Australia’s water ambassador, during an interview in the city on Friday. | Photo credit: SR RAGHUNATHAN
The Australian government would like to partner with Tamil Nadu, specifically Chennai, and share its expertise and innovative technologies through commercial and institutional collaboration for better water management, said Karlene Maywald, South Australia’s Water Ambassador, Department of Environment and Water, Government of South Australia.
In an interview with The Hindu, she highlighted Australia’s vast experience in dealing with issues ranging from rare rainfall to floods. “We want to share with Tamil Nadu, and Chennai in particular, the expertise that comes with understanding the complexities of water management. We aim to showcase innovative and affordable technologies for water systems to ensure a healthy drinking water supply,” she said.
Ms Maywald accompanied an Australian delegation that visited Chennai on Friday to explore partnerships with Tamil Nadu’s water industry. The visit was organized by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission as part of the Australian Government’s Australia Business Exchange Program and supported by the South Australian Government’s Department of State Development.
Elaborating on the meeting with industry stakeholders and government agencies, the delegation said the aim of the visit was to showcase technologies in various areas, including stormwater management (SWD) with AI-driven solutions, water and sewer pipe health assessment technologies and innovative approaches to rainwater harvesting.
“For example, we have sensors to measure the water level in SWD and detect blockages for better flood management. There are companies that offer solutions for assessing the condition of pipes and advanced technologies for analyzing water quality. Collecting data and using it for decision-making is another area of expertise,” she said.
Australia also has significant experience in using reclaimed water across sectors and building resilient cities through circular economy practices. Noting that Australia’s water journey has provided many lessons, Ms Maywald said: “We have a lot to share at the government-to-government level and with energy companies. Both governments are focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship through trade. Another trade agreement — the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement — currently being negotiated will further expand opportunities for Indian and Australian businesses.”
On the similarities between the two countries on water issues, she said, “Australia’s landscape and weather have created opportunities to develop innovative technologies for water management. We want to share technologies and knowledge relevant to Tamil Nadu and its cities for water management and infrastructure.”
While the delegation’s visit focused on building business relationships to implement innovative solutions in the state, the Australian government is also interested in capacity building through an accredited course for water operators.
Ms Maywald emphasized the need to address climate change in the Indian context, adding: “We don’t have all the answers to all the problems. But we have the path and experience that can enable India to meet the challenges of water management and climate change. Working with India will also help Australia expand its innovation.”
Published – 17 Oct 2025 20:49 IST
