Maribyrnong River catchment and flooding

Melbourne Water is delivering improvements to flood services across the Maribyrnong River catchment, with a strong focus on providing clear, accessible information and practical solutions to help reduce flood risk for the community. As part of this work, we are enhancing and updating flood information for the area to better support planning, preparedness and informed decision-making. 

Coming soon – Lower Maribyrnong River online flood map

A new digital flood map for the lower Maribyrnong River floodplain will soon be available here to make it easier for residents in areas, including Kensington Banks, West Melbourne, Maribyrnong and Avondale Heights, to access property specific waterway flood information.
You will be able to: 

  • view the online flood map and find property-specific information 
  • access flood hazard information, including hazard categories that indicate the potential level of risk to people and property 
  • read additional information about insurance, planning scheme changes and local flood guides. 

The online map will be based on the Maribyrnong River flood model released in 2024. 

Maribyrnong River catchment flood mitigation study 

Together with the community, we’re exploring options to reduce flood risk for the lower Maribyrnong River catchment.  
This study supports work to identify, develop and implement flood mitigation option for the lower Maribyrnong River catchment. The mitigation options will help to reduce overall risk from the possibility and consequences of a flood, while reflecting community values as much as possible. 
Learn more about this study and find out how to get involved.  
Find out more

Updated draft stormwater flood maps in Moonee Valley and Brimbank 

We’re working with local councils to update flood maps across Greater Melbourne. The maps show areas predicted to flood, now and in the future – so we can plan for our changing urban landscape and weather. 
Draft stormwater flood maps for Moonee Valley, Brimbank, Banyule and Hobsons Bay are being released for consultation soon. Work is also underway with all metropolitan councils, including Melbourne and Maribyrnong, to update stormwater maps.
Get involved and find out more

Reviews and investigations

Maribyrnong River Flood Review

The Maribyrnong River Flood Review was conducted by an Independent Review Panel, led by former Federal and Victorian Supreme Court Judge Tony Pagone AM. It investigated the flood’s causes and contributors, including the impact of the Flemington racecourse flood wall.

The Panel’s report was released in October 2023. Read their findings and recommendations:

Independent Panel’s Report – October 2023 Independent Panel’s final report – May 2024

 

 

Parliamentary Inquiry

Victoria’s major floods of October 2022 were subject to a Parliamentary Inquiry. The Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee investigated the state’s preparedness for and response to the disaster.

Victorian Ombudsman investigation

In 2025, the Victorian Ombudsman concluded an investigation into flood risk planning at Kensington Banks and Rivervue Retirement Village, focusing on planning decisions relating to the two developments. Melbourne Water supported the investigation by providing relevant information. Read the findings on the Victorian Ombudsman website.

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