2023 Annual Conference – Panel Sessions Day 1
The Annual Conference Program will include 3 panel sessions on Day 1, focusing on key issues that are impacting the water sector and how the current economic state is adding further challenges to these already complex issues. We will talk to experts from the water sector and external subject matter experts to hear their perspective and advice on how we can tackle these matters.
Regulators Panel
Maintaining good regulatory outcomes in an increasingly challenging economy. How do we balance health, environment and customer?
The Victorian water sectors key regulators: the Essential Services Commission , the Environment Protection Authority and Department of Health join to discuss their respective regulatory postures and visions for delivering a comprehensive regulatory framework for Victoria's water sector.
Facilitator: Freya Marsden, Chair at Victorian Government Sustainability Fund
Speakers:
- Kate Symons, Commissioner and Chairperson, ESC
- Lee Miezis, Chief Executive Officer, EPA
- Dept. Health Victoria
Taking place on Day 1: 11:00am - 12:00pm, Wednesday 13 September
Customer Affordability Panel
Cost of living pressures are impacting a greater proportion of our community with people having to make hard decisions regarding which bills to pay.
What trends are panellists seeing in this space, what support is offered to customers and how is its effectiveness being measured?
Facilitator: James Garriock, Executive Director, InSync
Speakers:
- Ciara Sterling, CEO, Thriving Communities Partnership
- Dona Tantirimudalige, Managing Director, Westernport Water
- Monica Mackintosh, Managing Director, Echo MS
- Emma Youill, General Manager Customer & Growth, Goulburn Valley Water
Taking place on Day 1: 1:30pm - 2:30pm, Wednesday 13 September
Capital Project Challenges Panel
New capital projects are facing a number of challenges including competition from Victoria’s Big Build program, global supply chain constraints reducing the availability and driving up the price of materials, increasing govt regulation/requirements and a constrained labour market.
How are project proponents dealing with these challenges and what learnings are there for future projects?
Facilitator: Tim White, Founder & Executive Director at Utilities Regulation Advisory
Speakers:
- Cameron Fitzgerald, Managing Director, Southern Rural Water
- Andrew Pitney, Partner, Construction & Projects, Maddocks
- Jyoti Wardhen, Managing Director, Infrastructure & Property Advisory
- Craig Dixon, Executive General Manager - Service and Asset Lifecycle, Melbourne Water
Taking place on Day 1: 2:30pm - 3:30pm, Wednesday 13 September
