Exploring the Practices of Mandarin-speaking Water Drinkers: Research Conducted as Part of the Collaborative Research Project Understanding the Drivers of Public Trust in Sydney Water

Understanding Drivers of Public Trust in Sydney Water is a project of the collaborative partnership between Sydney Water and Western Sydney University. This Report contributes to that overall project by addressing a gap in Sydney Water's knowledge about the drinking water practices and 'drivers of trust' in Mandarin-speaking communities. This group is particularly important in Sydney, where the demography and cultural dynamics of the city are rapidly changing. This small-scale in-depth qualitative study involved focus groups, interviews and ethnographic observational research with 39 Mandarin-speakers, whose demographics fitted the broad profile of Chinese migrants represented in the 2016 Census. Participants were asked about how they drink water now and in the past; familial practices; preferences, concerns and influences; who they trust; knowledge of Sydney Water and water supplies; what information they need; and ideas for future engagements around drinking water.