This trans-disciplinary discussion paper, from 13 researchers across seven schools at the University of Queensland, considers Australia’s efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in Australia and within the broader Asia-Pacific region. It focuses particularly on those SDGs that are concerned with water, and it challenges the current steps being undertaken towards attaining the SDGs in both Australia and overseas. The recommendations identify the most influential and critical SDGs that affect the attainment of all other goals and targets, and identify plausible pathways for cross-government responsibility for the SDGs.