Unifying Australian groundwater data and knowledge in the National Hydrogeological Inventory

The National Hydrogeological Inventory is a new online application delivering consistent data and information about Australia's hydrogeology and groundwater systems. This presentation uncovers the story behind the inventory and plans for its future.

Did you know that groundwater is one of Australia's most precious natural resources and often accounts for around one-third of Australia's total annual water consumption? It is the only reliable and cost-effective source of water for more than 60% of the country, providing drinking water supplies to many cities, towns and regional communities, and supporting extensive economic development in the agricultural, mining and resources sectors. Groundwater is also critical for supporting many of our unique native ecosystems and environmental assets, including natural springs, diverse wetlands and terrestrial vegetation communities.

One of Geoscience Australia's strategic drivers is to Improve understanding of Australia's groundwater systems to support their sustainable management and use. Aligned with this key objective, and as part of the recently completed Exploring for the Future program, we developed and delivered the first comprehensive update of the Hydrogeology of Australia map and supporting report since first published more than 35 years ago.

Known as the National Hydrogeological Inventory (NHI), this new online mapping application delivers consistent national-scale synthesis of hydrogeological and related data and information for the nation's 42 major groundwater provinces. Accessible via the Geoscience Australia Data Discovery Portal, the NHI provides an enhanced and updated picture of groundwater systems across Australia, giving us a broader understanding of the communities, industries, and environments that rely on access to groundwater. This presentation uncovers the story behind the development of the inventory, looking at why it was developed, the type of information it contains, and plans for further improvements as part of the new Resourcing Australia's Prosperity Initiative.

0:00 - Introduction
4:32 - Seminar