On 30 June 2023, we will conclude the Melbourne operations of the Australian Water Quality Centre (AWQC), consolidating all operations to Adelaide.
Escalating supply and operating costs and a tight skilled labour market have made it increasingly challenging to cost-effectively resource a Melbourne AWQC base.
This move also better aligns to SA Water’s (of which AWQC is an independent business unit) strategic focus of delivering benefits and outcomes within South Australia.
SA Water’s Interim General Manager Customer and Commercial David Coombe said there will be no change to AWQC’s Adelaide operations.
“AWQC’s Adelaide facilities will continue as normal, with a renewed focus on field and laboratory services for customers in South Australia, including the highly valued work in maintaining safe water and sewer services for SA Water customers,” David said.
“We are positioning the SA-based lab for ongoing success, by investing time in enhancing technology and processes, and supporting our expert scientists in their work to maintain public health and provide advice and insight to customers across Australia and around the world, all from our world-class Adelaide laboratories.”
“Over the next 12 months, we will work with our Victorian customers to facilitate a smooth transition to new laboratory service providers,” David said.
AWQC’s specific water focus drives a comprehensive service, providing its customers with NATA-accredited sampling, testing and analysis, including research and consultancy services associated with the chemistry, microbiology, biology and ecology of source water, drinking water, wastewater and recycled water.