Thirty Years of Australian Disinfection By-Product Research: An Overview of the Changing Research Landscape

Disinfection of drinking water is essential for control of waterborne infectious disease, but also results in the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs). In this article, we summarise DBP research conducted in Australia over the past 30 years and consider its impact on the drinking water industry in terms of knowledge foundation, risk management and optimising operations. Fundamental and applied research in Australia has led to a greater understanding of the chemistry and conditions under which DBPs are formed, resulting in improved water quality. There is a high degree of industry collaboration and engagement in DBP research projects, and from a wide range of stakeholders. Collaboration has facilitated knowledge transfer to industry and enabled strategic alliances between national and international organisations. It is expected that Australian DBP research will continue to be driven by international research questions, as well as the specific needs of the Australian water industry.