About us

The Water Research Laboratory (WRL) is a world-leading fundamental and applied research organisation tackling the most challenging water engineering problems faced by the world today.

Based on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and part of the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at UNSW Sydney, our globally-esteemed laboratory spans four hectares and is home to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment and personnel comprising the most experienced and creative problem solvers in their respective areas of research and industry.

Our prestigious record established over 60 years has made us what we are today; a leading team of specialists solving problems related to water and the environment.

Our areas of expertise include:

         ORE    
Coastal, ocean
and estuarine
engineering and
management
River flow,
floodplain
management &
catchment
hydrology
Groundwater
research and
management
Civil
engineering
hydraulics
Offshore
renewable
energy
Environmental
studies and
climate change
adaptation
Wetland
restoration

 


 

WRL Capabilities portfolio

Download our capabilities portfolio

2017 Group photo team page
Research at the Water Research Laboratory is undertaken by a team of highly experienced academic, professional and technical staff... More
bsi Quality Management Systems 9001
The WRL Projects Team operates a Quality Management System (QMS) in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9001: 2015... More
Screen Shot 2020-05-22 at 2.55.45 pm
Collaborative teams within the Water Research Laboratory... More
Publications - Boat wake reflections 1 - Wooloweyah - Tino Heimhuber copy
A selection of some of our publications... More