Melbourne Water protects Ramsar wetlands, vital for wildlife, culture, clean water and flood resilience. We work with partners to secure their future.

Flood models identify which areas are most likely to flood, how quickly, and how deep the water may get.

Flood management in Melbourne is a shared responsibility between Melbourne Water, councils, emergency services and other key partners.

The Western Port Ramsar site spans nearly 60,000 hectares of wetlands, tidal flats, and seagrass meadows. It is internationally recognised for its biodiversity, rich birdlife, and its role in supporting healthy marine and coastal ecosystems. These wetlands filter water, support fisheries, reduce flood risk, and provide habitat for thousands of native species.

Melbourne Water has developed the Biodiversity Conservation Action Plan (BCAP) 2024–2028 to guide biodiversity protection across the Port Phillip and Western Port region.

Flood hazard classifications help us understand floodwaters’ potential for harm and property damage, based on their behaviour – like depth and speed.

At Melbourne Water, we manage trees and vegetation at our reservoirs, along pipe tracks and across our catchments.

Melbourne Water manages our rivers, creeks, and catchments, including large areas of land to support the function of the water supply and sewer network. Illegal rubbish dumping can sometimes occur on Melbourne Water land.

Flood risk in any area depends on how often flooding occurs, how deep and fast floodwater flows and how it impacts people, homes, and infrastructure.