Key Takeaways from the Voices from the Bush Conference 2024

What an incredible few days in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), where the Voices from the Bush Conference was held for the second time.

Seeing First Nations peoples who generously and with courage shared their stories and knowledge was profoundly moving.

The sessions were rich with powerful narratives and constructive dialogue. Some of the key focuses included:

• The water gap, often referred to as a ‘hole', remains a significant challenge that demands our deepest commitments and the most profound changes we've ever seen.

  
  

• We have a collective responsibility to act. It is crucial to acknowledge the historical injustices and ongoing challenges faced by First Nations communities regarding water access.

  
  

• We must listen to First Nations wisdom holders, traditional owners, organisations, and businesses.

  
  

• We need a strong emphasis on co-creation and co-design with First Nations to develop and deliver appropriate solutions.

  
  

• We must have uncomfortable conversations and challenge norms to achieve the changes we want to see to ensure equitable access to water for every Australian.

The momentum generated from this conference must continue to drive more change in the water sector. More needs to be done from all levels.

Adam Lovell Jordin Payne Elizabeth Gadd Kiara Johnson Taylor Hayward MCom BA MAICD