Essentials Webinar: When a regulator visits
11-Jun-2026
About this event
In our sector, the Drinking Water Regulator and the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation play an important role in ensuring that community safety and environmental expectations for water services are met. However, inspections and audits by the regulator can be a cause for concern. This session will assist attendees to know how to confidently prepare for an inspection or audit, including:
- How to prepare for the visit, including who should attend and respond to correspondence
- What is the scope of the regulator’s powers
- Your rights and obligations
- What to say and what not to say in an inspection, audit or interview
- Tips and tricks to navigate the process effectively
In this webinar, Sarah Hausler and Caitlin Steuart from McCullough Robertson Lawyers will share their experience and expertise with the audience. Attendance at this webinar will be limited to qldwater member water service providers.
Sarah Hausler is a Partner at McCullough Robertson Lawyers and a specialist in planning and environment law. With qualifications in environmental science and urban and regional planning, Sarah advises government and private clients on environmental compliance, litigation, infrastructure agreements, and water management. Her expertise spans major developments, waste management projects, and addressing emerging contaminants. Known for her strategic and practical advice, Sarah helps clients navigate complex challenges in infrastructure, water, and environmental law with precision and insight. Sarah is a familiar face at qldwater events, as both an attendee and presenter having presented at the Emerging Contaminants Workshop in 2024 and to the Sewerage and Water Environmental Advisory Panel.
Caitlin is a Senior Associate at McCullough Robertson, specialising in environmental approvals, statutory compliance action, litigation and governance advisory. Caitlin previously worked in an In-house legal role for the Queensland Departments of Environment, Resources and Primary Industries, and prior to that as a State Government environmental litigation lawyer, so is well placed to understand the expectations of the environmental regulator.
She has a particular interest in environmental regulation given her qualification in environmental science and background in government. Caitlin’s broad experience means she is able to navigate key issues and risks, while also providing support to clients across all aspects of regulatory approvals requirements, strategy, compliance and incident response.
