The Water Research Commission's terms of reference are to promote co- ordination, communication and co-operation in the field of water research, to establish water research needs and priorities from a national perspective, to fund research on a priority basis, and to promote the effective transfer, dissemination and application of research findings. The Commission plays an important role in developing high-level human resources in the sector. No grants are made to the Commission as its work is funded by a levy on water users.