Fluid Bonds: Gender and Water in Australia and the Asia-Pacific Region

Abstract

Explores how decisions about the use and management of water can benefit from the inclusion of a gender dimension. It also makes a case for mainstreaming gender concerns in water-related research, policy-making and aid. In particular: the participation of women in water-related decision-making in Australia, and in its aid policies for Asia Pacific, must be a priority; in emphasizing ‘community participation’ policies, the attention must always be on who participates and who benefits; water policy must not support the gender status quo, where women are often excluded or inequitably represented in decision-making.