Transitioning Framework Toward A Water-Sensitive City: A Review of Australian Practices

The increasing occurrence of widespread water-related tensions in the international scope, coupled with climate change and limitations on accessible freshwater resources, has led to the ineffectiveness of traditional engineering-oriented approaches in urban water systems management. Therefore, political and social driving and environmental demands have caused urban water systems to be considered as a "Socio-Ecological" System, and strategic planning is needed for its management. This alternative model is called the "Water-Sensitive City". Implementing the new approach requires significant changes in the structures, culture, planning methods, management practices, and stakeholder engagement. The transition toward a Water-Sensitive City consists of six stages. Dominant narratives and enablers are considered as two vital and influencing factors affecting the transition process. Finally, a checklist of effective factors in the transition process is developed, which will act as a roadmap and enabling the creation of a matrix that can evaluate and monitor the progress of the transition.