Water

Water is vital for survival. It is needed to maintain a good health and prevent diseases and illnesses. Once affected by these diseases people may be unable to attend school or work, where they need the money to obtain the necessities of life. Water is also needed to grow crops and food and to keep the land thriving. Exclusion from water and sanitation services is a violation of the human right to water.

Where people live deeply affects their ability to acquire water they need. Land forms, soil types, and climate can change the amount of water that is available in certain areas. In places where many people have to share the same water, the amount each person receives is less, and in places where rainfall is common, people receive more water.

In the next 2 decades, it is estimated that a 40% increase on water use will occur, and that 2 thirds of the worlds population will be struggling to get the amount of water they need by 2025.

Water related diseases around the world are increasing and may be caused by drinking water in which is contaminated by human or animal waste or insects which breed in water. Injuries are also formed through women and children who often suffer neck, knee and shoulder injuries or long term spinal damage from carting water long distances in countries such as Africa. Improved access to safe water and knowledge of hygiene and management practices leads to improved health and needs to be taken aboard.

The Australian government's aid program aims to reduce poverty and raise living standards in developing countries. Their work promotes two main focuses including:

• Water governance – managing the sustainable use of water
• Delivery systems – improving the efficiency of existing water systems while increasing the access to water and sanitation services

Australia's approach to creating a sustainable water supply for countries in poverty has been to involve local communities in project design as well as providing projects that serve in broadening the communities knowledge of sanitation and maintenance skills. Community involvement, including the roles of women and men focuses on the real needs of communities and builds skills, understanding and commitment which will assist long-term maintenance of services.