Melbourne Water’s interactive education program, The Future Water Story, has been awarded silver at the 2026 BETTER FUTURE World Design Awards, adding to its gold win earlier this month at the GOV Design Awards in the Digital – Education category.
The World Design Awards recognise excellence in design outcomes and the role of commissioning organisations, with winners announced ahead of a global ceremony to be held in London in March. Melbourne Water will support the event from Australia.
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Where is The Future Water Story located, and how does it work?
Developed by Melbourne Water’s Education Team in partnership with design studio S1T2, The Future Water Story is located at the Western Treatment Plant. The program uses real-time simulation, collaborative decision-making and hands-on activities to help students explore how water systems respond to human and environmental pressures.
Participants navigate a dynamic water system through storytelling and group negotiation, revealing how different choices shape environmental and community outcomes.
Why is Melbourne Water investing in water education?
Melissa Cordy, Melbourne Water’s Water Literacy Manager, said the recognition reflects a long-term commitment to building understanding and capability among young people.
“We designed The Future Water Story to spark curiosity, build confidence, and give young people a sense of agency on what it takes to shape a sustainable future,” Cordy said.
“This award is a testament to what’s possible when education, creativity, and technology come together with a shared purpose. We’re incredibly proud of the impact this program is having in schools across Victoria.”
How does digital learning support water literacy outcomes?
The program forms part of Melbourne Water’s broader approach to water literacy, combining place-based learning with digital tools to make complex water system concepts accessible to students. The dual recognition at national and global levels highlights growing interest in education models that link environmental systems, infrastructure and long-term sustainability.