Vietnam sought to modernise its Law on Water Resources and then develop the subordinate instruments and plan to implement it. The Ministry required international expertise to strengthen draft legislation, build capacity, and ensure both the law and its implementation reflected global best practice, climate resilience, and inclusive water governance.
Yvette’s Solution – Two Connected Projects
1. Supporting Development of the Amended Law on Water Resources (2022–23)
Yvette provided technical policy and legislative advice across multiple priority areas—including water planning, licensing, allocation, governance, economic tools and gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) —and prepared technical papers submitted in support of amendments. She delivered a high-impact Australian study visit for senior Vietnamese officials, enabling direct engagement with Australian experts, government agencies, and water management systems. Policymakers reported that the experience clarified previously uncertain regulatory areas, strengthened confidence in reform, and supported drafting improvements in seven key legislative areas.
She also participated in a follow-up Vietnam visit, where she presented to members of Vietnam’s National Assembly and delivered capacity-building workshops for more than 100 government and water-sector stakeholders. These sessions deepened understanding of international best practice, strengthened drafting capability and supported Vietnam’s reform teams to navigate complex policy and legislative issues.
2. Supporting Implementation Through Decree and Circular Development (2023–24)
Following passage of the amended Law, Yvette contributed targeted technical advice to support development of the implementation Decree and circulars. This included guidance on water accounting methods, water scenarios and distribution, licensing, and governance roles. She supported drafting of an implementation roadmap for phased roll-out of reform, and a GEDSI assessment outlining practical measures for inclusive implementation. The Ministry confirmed that several elements of her advice—particularly on water accounting—were incorporated into the drafting of the Decree submitted for government approval.
Customer Benefit
Across both projects, Vietnam received clear, practical and internationally aligned guidance that strengthened legislative provisions, improved reform coherence, and built long-term institutional capacity. Senior officials reported that the work increased confidence in the reform program, clarified complex policy areas, and supported adoption of more robust governance, allocation and planning approaches drawing on learnings from Australian experience. The work also deepened collaborative and knowledge-exchange pathways between Australia and Vietnam.