Maribyrnong River catchment and flooding

About the lower Maribyrnong River flood model

The lower Maribyrnong River flood model was developed in 2024. It shows the flood extent which is how far flood water may reach in two scenarios – current day, and projected flood extent under a climate change scenario. These scenarios are based on a flood event with a 1% chance of occurring in any given year, known as 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP). 

The current flood scenario will be used to understand current flood risks and update VICSES Local Flood Guides and Municipal Flood Emergency Plans. 

The Year 2100 flood scenario predicts the impact of future flooding, accounting for climate change. This information will be used to guide long-term planning, including council planning regulations on land use (e.g. property development and renovations). 

Read background information on the development of the model:

Summary report

Technical report

Flooding and your property 

Even if your property is affected by flooding, the impact on buildings can vary. This depends on the depth of floodwaters and the distance between the floor and the ground. The flood levels shown on our updated flood maps refer to the maximum height floodwaters may reach measured from sea level, known as Australian Height Datum (AHD). To find out your property’s floor level, you may wish to engage a licensed surveyor. They can also advise if any buildings or structures on your property are below the flood levels that we’ve provided.
To learn more about these concepts, watch our explainer video.  

If you’re intending to buy, sell, build, renovate or develop property in a flood-affected area, our website has our current flooding information and advice, including applying for a flood level certificate. 

If you need support to understand the flood information, please contact us:
131 722
[email protected].

What’s next?

The Victorian Government is improving how flood risk is considered in planning decisions across the state. This work is being led by the Department of Transport and Planning and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, in partnership with Catchment Management Authorities and Melbourne Water.

If the proposed planning changes are adopted, this new flood information can be more easily included in planning schemes through a simpler, state-led process. This will make it easier to assess new homes and developments against current flood risks.
The new approach will clearly identify areas where new development:

• should be avoided
• needs careful consideration and assessment
• should include flood-resilient design features

Overall, these changes aim to better protected households, reduce future flood damage, and support safer housing in the right locations as the climate continues to change.

For more information about planning scheme amendments related to the lower Maribyrnong River, please visit Amendments – planning schemes. 

Key residential areas along the lower Maribyrnong River 

Kensington Banks

Kensington Banks is located within the lower Maribyrnong River floodplain, an area historically affected by flooding due to its proximity to the river and surrounding drainage network. The area was developed during the late 1980s and 1990s as part of the redevelopment of the Newmarket Saleyards. Prior to residential development, the site was one of Australia’s largest livestock trading and processing areas. Remnants of the saleyards are still present in the development today.

Following the October 2022 flood event and the Victorian Ombudsman’s investigation into flooding in the Maribyrnong area, there has been increased focus on improving flood awareness, community understanding and long-term resilience.
This website provides information to help residents better understand flood risk in the Kensington Banks area, including clear and easy to access flood risk information available through the online map at the top of the page and flood emergency management information. It also outlines options to improve flood resilience for homes and properties, links to insurance guidance and updates on planning scheme amendments and broader planning reforms relating to flood risk management. It also includes a link to information about the Maribyrnong River catchment flood mitigation study.

Melbourne Water continues to work with councils, government agencies and the community to improve flood modelling, planning controls and flood awareness initiatives to help communities better understand and prepare for flood risk now and into the future.

Ascot Chase

Ascot Chase is a residential community located alongside the Maribyrnong River in Melbourne’s inner west. The area was developed during the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of a broader urban renewal transformation of former industrial and riverside land.
Like many communities located near waterways, Ascot Chase has a long history of exposure to flooding due to its position within the natural floodplain. Flood events, including the major October 2022 flood, highlighted the challenges of living alongside the river and reinforced the importance of flood awareness, preparedness and informed planning.

As Melbourne Water continues its role as the floodplain management authority, there is increasing focus on helping communities better understand flood risk and adapt to living with floods over time. This includes improving flood information, supporting community awareness and working with councils and government agencies to strengthen long-term flood resilience across the Maribyrnong River corridor.

Maribyrnong Township

The Maribyrnong Township has a long and evolving connection to the Maribyrnong River. Much of the area developed after World War II (post-1945), due to its strategic location and importance for industry. As a result, parts of the township were built within the river’s natural floodplain.

Over time, urban growth, changing land use and an increasing population have transformed Maribyrnong Township into a vibrant residential and community area. Today, it is closely connected to the river environment and valued for features such as the riverside park, lined with its iconic Canary Island date palms.

Flooding is a natural part of the Maribyrnong River’s behaviour, and the township has experienced several significant flood events throughout its history. A well-known flood marker near the corner of Chifley Drive and Plantation Street records past flood levels. Locally known as the “lollipop pole” because of its bright colours, it serves as a visible reminder of the area’s flood history and the importance of being prepared.

Supporting the community to live safely alongside the river remains an ongoing priority. This includes improving access to flood information, investing in flood risk reduction measures, raising awareness and planning for the future. Together, these efforts help build a more informed, resilient and prepared community.

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. 
Consultation is underway on the draft stormwater flood maps for Moonee Valley and Banyule, and maps for Brimbank and Hobsons Bay will be available for feedback soon. Updated stormwater flood maps for City of Melbourne and City of Maribyrnong are in development. We’ll provide an update soon when this information is available.
Get involved and find out more

Key supporting information

• Reducing flood risk in our community 
• Prepare for flooding 
• Flood resilient guide to retrofitting your home  (11.68 MB, PDF)
• Are You Covered? Understanding flood home insurance 
• VICSES local flood guides 
• Updating maps and planning and building controls to better manage flood risk 
• Information on flood forecasts and warning services (333.09 KB, PDF)
• Local Flood Guide for Kensington, North Melbourne and West Melbourne

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 final report – May 2024
Melbourne Water accepted all 15 of the Panel’s recommendations. Read the related reports.  

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.