Join us for the Chamber’s inaugural Water Thought Forum, bringing together government, industry and experts to brainstorm the future of the water system in Australia and how we can lift performance and outcomes for business and communities.
Like energy, water underpins growth, resilience and infrastructure planning, from housing and mining to AI and data centres. The Forum features a keynote address from the Chief Executive of Sydney Water. Expert panels, including members with strong British and other international experience, will unpack the priorities shaping policy. We will explore water management challenges from water security, desalination and recycling to housing, stormwater and climate adaptation, and finish with a networking drinks.
This is a terrific opportunity for organisations across infrastructure, engineering, construction, investment, technology, and research to hear where future need, capability and collaboration are likely to emerge.
Tickets
Individual Ticket
Member: $75
Non Member: $105
Package of 3
Member: $280
Non Member: $400
Darren Cleary
Managing Director - Sydney Water
Darren Cleary
Managing Director
Darren is a respected leader in the Australian water industry with extensive experience in strategic planning, infrastructure delivery, and regulatory engagement. He joined Sydney Water after serving as Managing Director of Hunter Water from 2020 to 2025, where he led major initiatives to strengthen water security and resilience for the Hunter region.
During his tenure at Hunter Water, Darren oversaw the development and implementation of a culture and strategy led by customer and community values, development of the Lower Hunter Water Security Plan and commenced construction of the Belmont Desalination Plant, the region’s first new water source in 30 years.
Darren is passionate about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusion, empowering teams to deliver sustainable solutions that meet the needs of customers and communities. His leadership is focused on creating value through strategic partnerships and forward-thinking initiatives.
Darren is Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) with Honours from the University of NSW and a Masters of Engineering Management from the University of Technology Sydney.
Darren is currently a director of the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA). He is also a former member of the Advisory Board for the Newcastle Institute of Energy and Resources and a former Director of the Committee for the Hunter.
