Water governance is often fragmented and multilayered, with responsibilities spread across multiple entities. In contexts where fragmentation limits progress, establishing – or further supporting, where already existing – a centralized national water agency may help consolidate expertise, streamline project delivery and harmonize implementation standards. While centralization is not a universal solution, dependent on the context, a water agency can support strategic planning, guide funding allocation and oversee infrastructure delivery. In some cases, this approach can reduce duplication and promote operational efficiency, becoming vital to scaling investment and improving project bankability. Improved governanceCASE STUDY 13 Australia’s National Water Initiative (NWI) NWI, signed in 2004, represents one of the most comprehensive national water reform plans globally, establishing a consistent framework for secure entitlements, efficient markets, cost-reflective pricing and environmental protection. NWI introduced water pricing principles; a Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme, mandating star-rated labels for water-using appliances; industrial/agricultural disclosure requirements; statutory water plans, now covering over 80% of water use, to guide allocation, environmental flows and risk management; and water access rights as tradeable financial assets.37 CASE STUDY 14 Israeli Water Authority In 2007, the Israel Water Authority was established to consolidate fragmented water governance under a single independent entity. The authority manages policy, infrastructure, tariffs and strategic planning, ensuring representation and transparency. Between 2007 and 2023, freshwater abstraction fell by 38%, household consumption dropped 15%, non-revenue water receded from 14% to 8%, and water stress declined from 60% to 45%,38 supported by investments in desalination and wastewater reuse, which now account for 48% of total supply.39 Bridging the €6.5 Trillion Water Infrastructure Gap: A Playbook 29 Bridging the €6.5 Trillion Water Infrastructure Gap: A Playbook 29

Bridging the %E2%82%AC6.5 Trillion Water Infrastructure Gap A Playbook 2025