On Friday 14 October 2022, unprecedented rainfall caused major flooding of the Maribyrnong River – among the largest ever recorded. In response, we established an independent review and released updated flood modelling for the area.
Updated flood model and mitigation study
The updated Maribyrnong River flood model was released in April 2024. We’re now exploring options to reduce flood risk in the area through a flood mitigation study.
Learn about the model, view flood maps or find out how to get involved.
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:
Melbourne Water’s response
Melbourne Water accepted all 15 of the Panel’s recommendations. In line with these, we updated the Maribyrnong River flood model, which informed the Panel’s assessment of the Flemington flood wall.
The analysis shows the flood wall had no impact at Kensington Banks, but a slightly bigger impact in the Maribyrnong township (3.8cm extra depth on average).
We are incorporating the findings of the flood wall impact into our broader investigation of flood mitigation options across the catchment, as part of the Maribyrnong River catchment flood mitigation study.
We will use the insights from the review to inform future decisions and help the community prepare for future floods. Read about our progress in our October 2024 update.
Consultation and submissions
Flood-impacted residents, community members and stakeholders were invited to make a submission and share their experiences from 17 January to 17 March 2023.
The Independent Panel held public consultations in July 2023. They heard from interested parties and members of the community on their experiences of the floods. Melbourne Water also participated, speaking to our submission and hearing from flood-affected residents.
All submissions and a Shared Experiences Report were provided to the Panel.
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
The Victorian Ombudsman is investigating flood risk planning at Kensington Banks and Rivervue Retirement Village and will look at the flood risk planning decisions that relate to the two developments. Melbourne Water is supporting the Ombudsman investigation by providing relevant information. Find out more on the Victorian Ombudsman website.
Support for flood-affected communities
We understand the challenges in navigating the process to rebuild or refurbish your property. If you need initial advice on the planning and building process, we can provide support and information – by phone or online.
To arrange this, call 131 722 or email [email protected].
An officer will get back to you within 2 business days to talk with you or to set up a short online meeting.