This book investigates the complex challenges of managing water resources on the driest inhabited continent, characterized by extreme climatic variability. David W. E. Smith provides a comprehensive analysis of Australia's hydrological landscape, drawing on historical management data and contemporary policy frameworks. The text evaluates the physical availability of water against the socio-economic demands of a nation prone to severe floods and droughts.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the unique environmental constraints of the Australian water sector. Readers frequently note the clarity of the author's approach to synthesizing complex geographical data for a broad audience.