Melbourne’s drainage system
Melbourne’s stormwater system works quietly in the background to protect homes, streets and waterways when it rains.
Rainwater is carefully managed through a connected network of drains, creeks, wetlands and infrastructure designed to move water safely through our city.
How does our drainage system work?
Rainwater runs off roofs and roads, into drains, creeks and rivers, and eventually into the bay.
Managing that journey across a large, growing city takes careful planning, resilient infrastructure and constant maintenance.
Building natural waterways
Some of Melbourne’s old drains are being turned back into natural creeks. Waterways like Tarralla Creek help manage stormwater while creating places the community can enjoy.
By restoring it to the natural waterway, we’re creating a cooler, greener space where native wildlife can thrive.
Wetlands and waterways
Melbourne’s drainage system includes wetlands and waterways that clean and move water through our city.
Wetlands act like nature’s kidneys, filtering and cleaning stormwater before it flows into our rivers, creeks and bays.
Small actions, big impact
Ever wondered how what you do at home can affect local waterways?
Litter, garden waste and chemicals can wash into drains and flow to rivers and bays. Small actions at home can have a big impact downstream.