Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Urban water sustainability in rapidly growing cities depends not only on infrastructure and technical monitoring, but also on how diverse stakeholders understand, govern and respond to water-related pressures. This study examines key informant perspectives on urban water sustainability in Parramatta, Sydney, a fast-growing urban region facing pressures from population growth, stormwater pollution, land-use change, ageing infrastructure and fragmented governance. Semi-structured interviews with 15 stakeholders from government agencies, utilities, community organisations and environmental groups were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that stakeholders define water sustainability broadly, linking water quality, ecosystem health, equitable access, community awareness, Indigenous knowledge and long-term governance. Participants identified urban development, stormwater pollution, sedimentation, infrastructure constraints and weak institutional coordination as major barriers to sustainability. Although local initiatives in restoration, monitoring, water efficiency, and community engagement are underway, current actions are widely viewed as insufficient, fragmented, and reactive. The study highlights the need for integrated, place-based water governance that aligns councils, state agencies, utilities, catchment groups and communities around shared indicators, stronger accountability and explicit links to SDGs 6, 11, and 15. The findings provide practical guidance for improving urban water management in Parramatta and comparable rapidly urbanising cities.</p>