Invitation to the National Water Conference 2003

The International Year of Freshwater (2003), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, comes at a crucial time. At the Millennium Summit in 2000, all member states were called upon to stop the unsustainable exploitation of water resources by developing water management strategies at the regional, national and local levels, which promote both equitable access and adequate supplies. Grave consequences lie ahead if we fail to meet these goals: the persistence and spread of deadly diseases; further damage to the global environment, threats to food security and stability itself. And while water problems are most acute in the developing world, developed countries are also at risk.

"The world needs to improve its stewardship of water resources. We need much more efficient irrigation, far less toxic agriculture and industry, and new investments in water infrastructure and services. The International Year of Freshwater should mobilize the world behind these goals by raising awareness, by generating new ideas and strategies, and by promoting participation, partnerships and peaceful dialogue. Let us pool our efforts; let us use the knowledge and technology at our disposal; and let us do our utmost to protect the world's precious freshwater resources - our lifeline for survival and sustainable development in the 21^st century."

Kofi A. Annan, Secretary General of the United Nations. Excerpt from the International Year of Freshwater Official Message.

In support of the International Year of Freshwater, The United Nations Association of Australia (Victoria) Inc., is holding a two day National Conference, at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre on October 7 and 8, 2003.

The Conference, entitled 'Towards a National Water Policy Framework: Vision to Implementation', will focus on the need to develop an integrated national strategy which takes account of the existing COAG reform strategy, related sectors and policies, institutional strengthening, sharing of resources, stakeholder consultation and integrated resource management.

The Conference, which will bring together leading experts in the field of water management, is designed, through the workshops, to provide delegates with the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the development of the most effective water policy framework for Australia.

I look forward to welcoming you to the Conference in October.