The following Case Studies provide a snapshot of our approach to different business challenges: how we've worked with clients to address a particular issue and what we did to deliver the best results.
Independent, systems‑based evaluation of NSW’s flagship environmental water program, assessing efficiency, equity and ecological and cultural outcomes across multiple river, wetland and floodplain systems. The work refined program logic, integrated diverse stakeholder perspectives and delivered actionable recommendations for the next phase of Basin‑scale water management.
Read full case studyIntegrated evaluation framework for the Basin Plan, designing program logic, indicators and methods so MDBA and Basin States can consistently assess environmental, social and economic outcomes and use evidence to guide adaptive management and future Plan revisions across the Murray–Darling Basin.
Read full case studyCobalt59 evaluated the WaterFix Residential Program for Sydney Water and the NSW Climate Change Fund. The fund gave money to Sydney Water to dramatically boost the program during a serious downturn in water inflows into the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment.
Read full case studyCobalt59, with Clearwater and economist Rod McInnes, were commissioned by Eurobodalla Shire Council to do a cost benefit analysis for the new southern water storage. This was central to the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund application.
Read full case studyAt Maryvale, nutrient‑rich mill wastewater was converted from an environmental liability into a productive asset using no‑till, pasture‑based livestock systems. The design safely maximises effluent use, protects soil and water, and delivers reliable returns for both owner and lessee.
Read full case studyFish for the Future – Northern Basin Toolkit Feasibility (NSW Fisheries) developed a systems‑based, $104.6 million integrated works program combining fish passage upgrades, diversion screening, cold‑water pollution mitigation, and threatened species breeding to meet Basin Plan objectives, de‑risk investment, and restore native fish across key northern valleys.
Read full case studyWonga Wetlands transforms treated wastewater into a thriving ecosystem and productive agricultural landscape. By managing irrigation, grazing, and wetland habitat as one integrated system, the project demonstrates how circular water use delivers environmental, social, and economic value simultaneously.
Read full case studyCobalt59, with ARTD, was commissioned by The Department of Planning and Environment, Environment, Energy and Science to evaluate the NSW Government’s Environmental Water Management Program from 2014-2019. Cobalt59 provided the systems analysis and extensive water programs evaluation experience.
Read full case studyCobalt59 reviewed City Recital Hall's business model, then used a range of performance measures to benchmark the venue against similar venues in Australia and overseas. This informed the strategy, and gave the City of Sydney various options for increasing revenue and reducing running costs.
Read full case studyA new music festival and conference was imagined for Western Sydney (WS). WS Business Connection and WS Business Chamber needed help to secure the funding commitment from the NSW Government. They contracted Cobalt59 to develop the business case for Destination NSW.
Read full case studyParramasala is an arts and cultural festival in Parramatta. The task was to facilitate the creation of strategy and a Business Case to support multi-year funding for Parramasala from 2016-2018. The goal was a 50% increase on current levels from both the NSW Government and Parramatta City Council
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