30 June 2008

Climatic change caused by global warming is being felt across the world. These changes increase pressure on infrastructure and community. Roads, airports, bridges, dams, stormwater and sewers are all affected. Sustainable initiatives for town planning, curbing emissions and developing flood management plans for urban and rural communities impact upon on the way we live and interact. It is essential that methodologies and policies change with the time to address relevant and timely issues facing industry, and UTS is leading the charge.

Associate Professor James Ball of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology has been appointed Editor-in-Chief of Australian Rainfall and Runoff (AR&R).

This handbook, which is published by Engineers Australia, was last reviewed in 1987 and is the main reference manual for all engineering works in Australia, providing technical information for designing infrastructure that will withstand the impact of extreme rainfall, flooding and storm surge.

Ball says that with its close industry associations UTS was immediately considered for the task.

“Many of the practices recommended in the 1987 edition of AR&R are now outdated and no longer represent the accepted views of professionals, both in terms of technique and approach to water management. This fact, coupled with greater understanding of climate and climatic influences makes the upgrade of the handbook crucial to maintaining an adequate knowledge of Australian rainfall and streamflow. In turn, this allows better management, policy and planning decisions to be made,” says Ball.

The project was announced by Senator Penny Wong, Minister for Climate Change and Water. The Rudd Government pledged $2 million for the first stage of the review, which is expected to be completed in three stages over four years.

“This handbook will help us adapt to the climate change we can’t avoid by assisting engineers to design infrastructure that can better withstand the effects of climate change,” Wong says.

On average, floods cost Australia over $300 million a year and this figure is expected to increase as a result of climate change.

Professor Archie Johnston, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology said he was delighted that Ball’s contribution to this vital area of research and design has been recognised and that the university’s relationship with industry and the professions has been strengthened.

Click here to view the Minister's press release

For further information contact:

Nancy Gewargis
Marketing Projects Manager

UTS:Engineering
02 9514 2637