07 Oct 2025
TasWater and GHD partnership to deliver stronger, smarter water services for Tasmania
TasWater’s large program of water and sewerage upgrades will be designed and delivered over the next decade, through a new partnership between TasWater and engineering firm GHD.
Under its new delivery model, TasWater’s approach represents a fundamental change in how water infrastructure is delivered across the state - moving away from fragmented short-term contracts to long-term partnership frameworks.
TasWater General Manager Project Delivery Tony Willmott said the new model was designed to provide greater certainty, efficiency and value for the community.
“TasWater is investing billions of dollars in essential water and sewerage infrastructure over the coming years,” Mr Willmott said.
“To deliver this responsibly, we need trusted partners who can provide not just technical expertise, but also a shared commitment to our communities.
“Our partnership with GHD will help us plan and design the right projects, at the right time, with the best value for customers. Together, we’re building a stronger, smarter and more sustainable water future for Tasmania.”
The Engineering, Planning and Design Framework is one of seven long-term delivery partnerships TasWater is establishing, each tailored to different types of projects across the state. GHD will support the entire program with integrated planning and design across major projects, renewals, technology upgrades, and more.
In addition to GHD, four engineering consultancies, each with a significant local presence, will provide specialist support across the broader program. The involvement of JMG, IPD, pitt&sherry, and Ganden ensures the program benefits from a diverse range of regional expertise across the water and sewerage sector.
GHD has been operating continuously in Tasmania for more than 80 years. The local team comprises more than 190 people, working across offices in Hobart, Burnie, Launceston and Queenstown, on local and global projects.
GHD’s Regional General Manager Sean Tucker said the partnership was an opportunity to deliver lasting benefits for Tasmanian communities.
“Tasmania faces unique challenges when it comes to water infrastructure – from geographic spread to environmental sensitivity and community expectations,” Mr Tucker said.
“By working in partnership with TasWater, we can take a whole-of-system approach that improves efficiency, reduces risk and helps every project contribute to healthier, more resilient communities. This is about delivering value not just for today, but for future generations.”
The partnership model embeds shared governance, joint planning and outcome-focused delivery, which means TasWater and its partners share both risks and rewards. This approach has already improved certainty in project delivery, increased efficiency, and strengthened community trust through more predictable outcomes.
TasWater’s Future Delivery Model includes seven frameworks covering engineering and design, major projects, medium projects, renewals, plant refurbishments, SCADA and operational technology upgrades and metering. Each is structured to ensure the right delivery model is matched to the right project type.
“We know Tasmanians want water services they can rely on, and infrastructure investments that deliver the best value,” Mr Willmott said.
“This partnership is one of the ways we’re making sure TasWater can meet that expectation.”
TasWater is investing $2 billion in its network over the next five years to ensure it can continue to deliver exceptional water and sewerage services for a thriving Tasmania.