CSIRO's AquaWatch Australia program is leading the development of an innovative, integrated ground-to-space water quality monitoring system. This multi-disciplinary initiative is designed to enhance the accessibility and accuracy of water quality data across Australia, offering vital insights for effective water management. By combining existing ground-based networks with newly deployed in-situ sensor systems and satellite observations, AquaWatch delivers real-time data and predictive forecasting capabilities, empowering water agencies, local communities, and commercial users to make informed decisions. AquaWatch also places value on collaboration with First Nations communities, with the aim of integrating Indigenous Science and Knowledge into its framework. These partnerships will aim to foster opportunities for Indigenous employment and co-designed science collaborations with Traditional Owners, particularly through key projects like the Eye on Water – Australia program within the Murray-Darling Basin.
Launched in March 2023, AquaWatch has now entered its scaling phase, progressing towards key milestones for 2026 and 2030. Co-designed pilot projects, developed in collaboration with stakeholders, are central to AquaWatch’s success. These pilots not only demonstrate AquaWatch's capability but also provide customised water quality data that supports local decision-making. By integrating sensor networks and Earth observation data, the program addresses the unique needs of partners across various application areas.
AquaWatch continues to innovate with advancements in low-cost in-situ sensors, hyperspectral payloads designed for aquatic monitoring, and the expansion of its Data System Infrastructure. As the system evolves, the program’s ongoing technology developments ensure that AquaWatch remains at the forefront of global water quality monitoring, supporting ecosystem health, industry growth, and public safety.
Collaborations and pilot sites, both within Australia and abroad, play a critical role in demonstrating and refining AquaWatch’s capabilities. These partnerships enable AquaWatch to test, scale, and optimise its technology, ensuring that the system is operational and effective in addressing water quality challenges on a wider scale.