Australia needs a water resources observation network (WRON): an information system that can tell us how much water we have now and expect to have in the future, as well as who is entitled to use it and under what conditions.

By 2010, it is hoped WRON will underpin national water resource management in this country.

Using technology, relevant information can be drawn into one comprehensive ‘national water account’, available to all. Web-based reporting tools can be delivered to suit the individual needs of various end-users, and raw data, forecasts and predictions processed by sophisticated computer models can be used to support and justify informed management decisions.

The concept is well supported by a growing alliance and substantial investment by Australian Government agencies. Success will depend on the cooperation and support of State Governments and catchment management authorities, the key ‘end users’.

It is still early days, but the WRON vision is captivating and the word is spreading.