Succession planning is well underway at Australia’s leading water network with a new president already planned a year in advance.
Clare Porter will be the Australian Water Association’s next President following Ozwater’27 after the board recently voted on the elevation.
Current President Kevin Werksman will complete his term and will continue leading the Association while Porter serves as President Elect.
“I’m delighted to announce Clare’s appointment as the future President of AWA to step into the role in May 2027,” Werksman said.
“Clare has a long history with AWA and brings enormous passion on the impact we can make as an industry. An enthusiastic co-developer of Strategy 2030, I know that Clare will provide excellent leadership supporting AWA and our members in bringing our initiatives to life.
“With her experience engaging with stakeholders and community, Clare brings excellent collaborative expertise to guide AWA and the Board in our journey to inspire systems change for a sustainable water future.”
Porter brings more than 25 years of experience across utilities, government and not-for-profit organisations. She is currently Interim Head of Marketing, Communications and Strategic Insights at Sydney Water and has served on the Australian Water Association Board since 2023, where she chairs the Strategic Impact Sub-Committee.
Beginning her career at AWA, Porter has since held leadership roles spanning strategy, communications, customer and stakeholder engagement, culture and governance. Throughout her career, she has remained passionate about the role of the water sector in supporting sustainable, liveable communities and the importance of building greater understanding of water’s value within the broader community.
“I’m honoured to have been elected as AWA’s President Elect,” Porter said.
“AWA has been part of my journey since my very first role in the water sector, so this appointment feels both deeply personal and a real privilege. I’m looking forward to working with Kevin, the Board and the team as we help deliver Strategy 2030 and continue creating value for members and the broader water community.”
Since joining the Board, Porter has made a significant contribution to AWA’s strategic direction and governance. As President-Elect, she will work closely with the Board and leadership team to support the delivery of Strategy 2030 during a pivotal period for the Association.
“As President Elect, I’m looking forward to supporting delivery of Strategy 2030 – strengthening collaboration, advocacy and capability across the sector, and building greater community understanding of the value of water and the challenges we face.
“One of AWA’s greatest strengths is its community – the depth of experience, passion and commitment right across our members and volunteers.
“I’m looking forward to working with that community to build on AWA’s strong foundations and continue supporting a connected, capable and forward-looking water sector.”
Former President Peter Dennis has also stepped down from the Board and his role as Immediate Past President.
