Turning Nature into Climate Infrastructure
Westernport Water Recognised in the 2025 Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge
Westernport Water has been recognised as a second runner-up in the 2025 Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge, securing $75,000 in funding to help advance an innovative research project that uses nature-based solutions to strengthen climate resilience.
The announcement was made at an event hosted by the Intelligent Water Network (IWN) on Friday, 5 December, held at Melbourne Water’s Docklands headquarters, where shortlisted project teams presented their ideas to sector leaders.
The first innovation challenge sponsored by IWN for their Hydrovation Challenge was won by Westernport Water for the original floating wetlands concept back in November 2020.
Westernport Water has now collaborated with Yarra Valley Water (lead partner), CSIRO, TasWater, and Melbourne Water to submit a successful project bid titled: CSIRO Enhanced Constructed Floating Wetlands – Turning Nature into Climate Infrastructure.
The Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge, now in its third year, supports bold projects that reduce emissions, save water, cut waste, or help the sector adapt to a changing climate.
Of the 12 project applications in the 2025 Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge, six were shortlisted and four received funding from a total challenge pool of $280,200.
Quotes attributed to Dona Tantirimudalige, Westernport Water Managing Director
“We’re proud to play a role in advancing climate-ready innovation for the Victorian water sector. This project demonstrates how nature-based solutions can help us adapt to a changing climate while supporting biodiversity and local water quality.”
“Westernport Water has contributed $10,000 in direct funding, plus in-kind support through ongoing maintenance and access to the floating wetland at our Cowes Wastewater Treatment Plant on Phillip Island.”
Media Release – Turning Nature into Climate Infrastructure – 17122025 – CR25-44377
ENDS
Media enquiries to Manager Communications and Engagement on 1300 720 711 or email | communications@westernportwater.com.au