Developed on behalf of the Swan Canning Policy Forum May 2011 in theSwanCanningCatchment Priority PlanforInvestment Foreword

If, as a community, we want to maximise the social, economic and environmental values that the Swan Canning system provides, a more coordinated and better resourced effort must be made.

If we want to fully maximise the Our vision is for a healthy, vibrant river opportunities for public amenity and system which contributes to the health, waterfront development while improving the wellbeing and quality of lifestyle of the Perth existing infrastructure and environmental community and where responsibility for its values of the Swan Canning system and its health is shared by all, for all. tributaries, we need a long term strategy To succeed, any plan must be effective, that acknowledges the realistic levels and affordable and equitable. The people of Perth methods of investment required. today, and the extra half a million who will Mayor James Best If we want to be a water sensitive city that call this city home by 2031, will all be making responds to the demands of a drying climate a contribution to the health of our rivers – on our growing city, we will need to improve and we will need to see and experience the our activities to understand, manage and benefits of this contribution. This Priority Plan maximise our urban stormwater resources. will achieve that goal. Issues related to the health and future A long term, strategic approach is necessary wellbeing of our rivers also impact upon to guarantee adequate funding for this the health and wellbeing of our community. important issue. We need evidence-based Foreshore and river wall protection that policies and programs built on the best improves adjacent public open spaces, available science, with appropriate funding to Mayor Troy Pickard reduction of urban water pollution that meet the long term needs of the river system. improves the quality of our waterways and The Western Australian Local Government treating disused landfill on the edges of the Association, on behalf of the metropolitan rivers can all have a positive impact upon Local Governments and the communities our lives. they represent, is committed to ensuring that Issues such as these and the opportunities the sector plays a leadership role in placing they present have been brought together in our most iconic asset at the forefront of a this Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan 21st Century Perth. Canning Catchment. A shared vision and This Plan delivers an efficient, equitable and strong leadership will be required to meet realistic solution that demonstrates that the challenges that lay before our great commitment. City in order to capitalise upon the many opportunities in the Priority Plan.

Mayor James Best Mayor Troy Pickard Chair – Swan Canning Policy Forum President – WALGA Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 01 Contents

1.0 Executive Summary 02 4.0 Proposal Description 14 2.0 Background 04 4.1 Proposal explanation 14 2.1 Current Issues 04 4.1.1 Approach 14 2.1.1 Water quality 04 4.1.2 Objectives 14 2.1.2 Shoreline protection 05 4.1.3 Healthy Catchments Partnership Framework 14 2.1.3 Urban drainage infrastructure 06 4.1.4 Investment model 15 2.1.4 Waterway health 06 4.1.5 Costing structure 17 2.1.5 Land development 07 4.2 Scope 17 2.1.6 Climate change 07 4.2.1 Proposal area 17 2.1.7 Community interaction 08 4.2.2 Timeframe 17 2.1.8 Becoming a water sensitive city 08 4.3 Benefits 18 2.2 Water Reform 08 4.3.1 Community benefits 19 2.3 Stakeholders 09 4.4 Relationship with other projects 19 2.4 Drainage rate 10 4.5 Impact of not proceeding with the Proposal 19 3.0 Investment 12 5.0 Conclusions and Recommendations 21 3.1 Urban drainage 12 The ecological, social, 5.1 Conclusions 21 cultural (including 3.2 River wall and shoreline protection 12 5.2 Recommendations 21 Indigenous) and amenity 3.3 Funding 12 6.0 Appendix 22 qualities provided by 3.4 Investment needs 13 6.1 Identifying Options 22 the river system add enormous value to 6.2 Analysis of Impacts on Stakeholders 23 our urban landscape 6.3 Existing Drainage Rate models 24 – in essence, the river 6.4 Marketing and Communications 26 system is the defining 6.5 Partnership Agreement: Protecting our Swan Canning System 27 feature of Perth. 6.6 Local Government Charter for the Swan and Canning river system 34 6.7 Model Nutrient Offset Scheme for the MRS 35 Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 03

1.0 Executive Summary

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) Swan Canning Policy Forum was developed because of members’ concerns about continuing water quality decline and asset degradation in and along the Swan and Canning Rivers.

The Western Australian Local networks, groundwater leaching and water quality issues. There currently exists The Objective of this Priority Plan is It is considered that the overall 4. The State Government increases Government Association (WALGA) Swan runoff, which pose a major risk to human a substantial backlog of drainage and river to recommend a preferred funding framework will be managed by a central, funding for the Swan River Trust in Canning Policy Forum was developed and ecological health. Current nutrient infrastructure capital works which have mechanism and institutional arrangements independent Board. This Board will future State budgets, because of members’ concerns about loads of phosphorous and nitrogen to become a barrier to the implementation of that will result in: be responsible for the administering 5. A partnership agreement is signed by continuing water quality decline and asset the Swan Canning system are almost best management practices. Under current n Improved water quality in the rivers, of funds for catchment restoration, all statutory stakeholders to commit 1 degradation in and along the Swan and double the maximum acceptable load . funding arrangements, it would take an waterways and groundwater waterway protection and water quality to water quality improvement and to Canning Rivers. The Policy Forum started This decline in water quality has caused estimated 75 years to address the backlog improvement through direct and clarify roles and responsibilities, as a representative group of the 21 Local fish kills and may have contributed to of drainage works and 63 years to address n Improved condition of built and competitive funding arrangements. This Governments which abut the river system, the death of six dolphins in 2009. These Priority 1 ageing and deficient shoreline natural foreshore areas through model will potentially generate over $90 6. Water quality targets/guidelines are consisting of Elected Members and Chief water quality issues are compounded by infrastructure and foreshores within the implementation of best practice million per year to address a number established for new development and Executive Officers. The group has evolved the impacts of riparian habitat loss (past river system. In addition, climate change n Improved stormwater management to of water quality, quantity and natural enforced through the planning system to represent the entire Swan Canning and present), erosion, urban development is likely to exasperate these existing best practice standards and physical asset management issues or Department of Water, catchment and wider metropolitan area. and increased use of the Riverpark. issues if the current level of investment is currently being experienced. The current n Increased community awareness 7. A compulsory nutrient offset scheme maintained. drainage rate administered by the Water The health of the rivers and wetlands in the The majority of the SRT’s work extends about the water quality issues in the be considered and applied to future Corporation produced an income of $36 Swan Canning catchment (the catchment) only to the Riverpark area (river and Local Governments are one of the catchment urban land development within the is fundamental to the health and wellbeing foreshore areas as defined in the Swan key land managers and, as statutory million in 2009/2010 with an additional Metropolitan Regional Scheme, n Behaviour change influenced to reduce $4 million generated through headworks of the Perth community, regardless of how and Canning Rivers Management Act approval authorities, have a great 8. The State water reform agenda to nutrients and contaminants reaching contributions. This proposal seeks to close they live to the rivers. The Swan 2006), yet many of the water quality capacity to reduce nutrient loads include water quality management waterways expand that system and to “rate” the Canning river system adds enormous problems we face are caused by activities entering receiving waterways. There is a provisions for drainage service entire Perth metropolitan area. Funds value to the urban landscape because of throughout the wider catchment area. lack of government leadership in Western n Water quality considerations integrated providers as well as mechanisms would be allocated in a transparent and its ecological, social, cultural (including Here Local Governments are the key land Australia to address water quality into land-use planning processes to reduce transfer of nutrients and accountable way and quarantined to Indigenous) and amenity qualities. In managers with the capacity to make real issues which has led to fragmented n Current and future development contaminants to water bodies, and essence, the river system is the defining improvements to water quality discharge. programs and investments which have ensure they are invested only in priority maintaining or improving water quality 9. Expand the Infill Sewerage Program to feature of Perth. Described by Premier Local Governments manage the majority delivered few beneficial outcomes to the investment areas and not diluted in include industrial areas and currently Colin Barnett as ‘the City’s greatest asset’, of drainage networks in the catchment environment and wider community. n Increased trust, collaboration consolidated revenue. Existing levels and understanding between key of investment by state agencies would unsewered urban areas. it is a central focus in both our Indigenous (80%), which aid the delivery of nutrients Therefore, through the Swan Canning stakeholders need to be maintained to ensure the The following Plan addresses and colonial history. and non-nutrient contaminants to Policy Forum, Local Government has existing base level of management is Recommendation 1 in some detail. Unfortunately, at present, the value and waterways. Local Governments also have decided to take a lead role in advocating n Improved river resilience to manage built on and enhanced. Recommendations 2-9 are seen as importance of the waterways in the the capacity to improve water quality for more investment aimed at restoring climate change impacts through foreshore rehabilitation, local This model is based on the principle that important components of the overall catchment is not reflected in the level and enhancing the City’s most important n Clarity on the roles and responsibilities laws, land use planning and community the responsibility for the health of the river strategy, although not developed in detail of investment being made to protect natural asset. Over $28 million is invested of relevant stakeholders in this document. The implementation their health. The Swan River Trust education. A number of disused landfill in drainage infrastructure annually by system is shared by all. This proposal investigates the of Recommendation 1 alone is not (SRT) is the statutory body responsible sites vested with Local Government are metropolitan Local Governments, as well The Recommendations of the Plan development of a sustainable funding considered adequate to address all the for the management and protection of also potential sources of contamination to as significant funding into community are therefore; mechanism to improve catchment issues currently associated with waterway the Swan Canning river system, with our waterways. education, foreshore rehabilitation management and an enhancement of 1. The State Government works with health in the Swan Canning catchment. an annual budget of just $13 million. Local Governments, as managers and land use planning. These efforts institutional arrangements to deliver key statutory stakeholders to develop Its responsibilities extend to foreshore of public open space infrastructure, are often done in isolation and would The WA Local Government Association more integrated and coordinated an equitable and on-going funding management, development assessment, are also cognisant of a massive benefit from an integrated, funded and State Council endorsed these outcomes. A number of revenue streams mechanism to improve the health of community education, research, policy infrastructure backlog in relation to costed strategy to improve water quality recommendations at its April 2011 meeting. are explored, with the preferred option the Swan Canning Catchment and and projects, as defined in the Swan and assets that protect and serve to enhance discharges, and therefore the health of including a healthy catchments rate as river assets, Canning Rivers Management Act 2006 the community’s enjoyment of these waterways throughout the catchment. a required outcome within an overall and associated policies and regulations. iconic and dynamic assets. Such a strategy would also strengthen 2. Local Government develops framework that includes improvements the partnerships that currently exist stormwater quality management plans Despite the exemplary efforts of the SRT There is an urgent need to establish a to wetland and asset management, and provide opportunities for more to improve asset management and to manage and protect the major, high- robust framework for relevant statutory land-use planning policies and process, coordination between community groups, implement current best practice for value receiving environments within the stakeholders to improve land use community engagement and institutional Local and State Government. integrated water management, catchment, with limited resources, the planning, land and water management arrangements. This would be allocated to system is under stress due to past and practices, community behaviours and the river system in the first instance and 3. Water Corporation develops current practices. Nutrient inputs to the sustainable financial resources in order to then expanded to be delivered across the stormwater quality management Swan Canning river system are too high, address urban stormwater water quality metropolitan area. plans and reports on water quality causing eutrophication and toxic algal throughout the catchment. The current within main drains and capital works blooms. Harmful contaminants are also level of investment in the rivers and other programs as well as implements entering waterways through drainage waterways inadequately addresses the current best practice for integrated water management, 1 Swan River Trust. (2009) Swan Canning Water Quality Improvement Plan. Perth, WA.: Government of Western Australia. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 05

2.0 Background

The Swan Canning Estuary has been and weed invasion. The river walls which incidences of fish kills, outbreaks of toxic areas, despite research indicating that the Swan River comprising Claisebrook, natural stability; disturbance of sediment identified as a coastal ‘hot spot’ by the protect property and infrastructure from blue-green algal blooms and seasonal red drains in industrial areas are carrying Maylands, Belmont Race Course, transport patterns; and inadequate Australian Government. A coastal hotspot flooding are in dire need of restoration, and green algal tides have indicated water excessive levels of harmful contaminants. Burswood and the Central Business structural stability7. These problems are is defined as an area that: while traditional drainage infrastructure quality is declining in the river system. In the Port Phillip Westernport region of District was the highest priority area along present in foreshores throughout the river n encompasses one or more matters is assisting in the transfer of nutrients to Further research has provided certainty Victoria, Melbourne Water made significant with the Bull Creek and the Lower Canning system and cause water quality decline, of national significance as defined waterways. Additionally, the opportunities to these concerns. The Swan Canning investments in deep sewerage in both in the Canning River. These sites had at erosion, sedimentation, loss of natural under the Environment Protection and to move Perth towards becoming a water Water Quality Improvement Plan (SCWQIP) residential and industrial areas and saw a least one contaminant which exceeded vegetation as well as adversely affecting Biodiversity Act (1999); sensitive city are not being realised at an outlines the current state of water quality dramatic decline in nutrient loads over the the ANZECC (Australia New Zealand access and useability of the river system adequate pace and investment is lacking. and identifies sources of phosphorous and medium term. Environment and Conservation Council) and its foreshores. n is under pressure as a result of nitrogen entering the system. Annually, interim sediment quality guidelines High population growth and development, 2.1.1 Water Quality Fertilisers are considered the biggest A number of Priority 1, 2 and 3 shoreline 250 tonnes of nitrogen (N) and 26 tonnes contributor of nutrients from the Trigger Value. Contaminants studied were protection works have been identified, disturbance of acid sulphate soils, and Modification of the natural characteristics of phosphorous (P) enter the system, metals, organochlorine (OC) pesticides and water quality decline; and catchment. The Fertiliser Action Plan was however there is little funding available of a catchment, through processes such close to double the maximum acceptable designed to legislate for the reduction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). to address them. The SRT Riverbank n is suffering ecosystem disturbance as land-use change and development, load, per year. The SCWQIP aims to content and solubility of phosphorous A similar study into contaminants in the Project provides $1 - $2 million each 6 leading to habitat loss and has a significant impact on the nature of reduce the nitrogen load by 120 tonnes in fertilisers. New fertiliser regulations drainage system found that contaminants year for shoreline projects. These funds biodiversity decline2 stormwater discharge and runoff. These per year (49%) and reduce phosphorous introduced in January 2011 reduced were also present in high levels in sub- are matched by Local Government. The changes generally result in greater volumes by 12 tonnes per year (46%). The main catchments throughout Perth. The Swan Canning Estuary is recognised phosphorous content in domestic lawn current level of investment will not meet the of runoff and increased sources and loads sources of phosphorous are from beef as an area of national environmental fertilisers to 1% and to 2% in garden A coordinated, strategic approach to needs for Priority 1 projects and the longer of pollutants entering waterways. cattle grazing (predominantly fertiliser significance under threat but is not currently fertilisers. This is recognised as an improving water quality is essential to investment is stalled the more foreshore input and manure) in the Ellen Brook being managed to national standards. The With urbanisation, pollutants become important first step in managing nutrients meeting the targets within the SCWQIP. It areas will degrade. sub-catchment and urban fertiliser use 2010-11 Caring for our Country Business entrained in stormwater runoff and are entering Perth’s waterways. relies on a number of stakeholders working (which is also a major source of nitrogen The City of South Perth bid to Plan did not identify the system as a efficiently delivered to waterways. Their towards a shared goal, the integration of entering the system). The SCWQIP also A number of reports published by the Infrastructure Australia (2009), made priority coastal hotspot and it was therefore accumulation can result in severe and often existing programs and on the development predicts that increased urbanisation will Department of Water investigated nutrients on behalf of river Local Governments, excluded from Federal funding. irreversible impacts, which ultimately affect of an overall strategy to facilitate increase nutrient loads by 18% total and non-nutrient contaminants in the identified the urgent need for $85.65 the quality of life enjoyed by the community. coordination. This will help to improve the Current level of investment into its catchment. Despite the findings of these million to address deteriorating shoreline nitrogen (TN) and 25% total phosphorous health of the Swan Canning river system, protection and the lack of holistic policy Water quality in Perth’s waterways has reports, it would appear that little action infrastructure. This figure was half of the (TP), due to increased runoff. Currently, an associated wetlands throughout the and management frameworks for the been declining since the area was first has been taken by the State Government total investment needed to address Priority estimated 40% of the nutrient load to the catchment and Perth’s popular beaches. system are inadequate and need to be settled. Development in the catchment to address the issues raised. For example, 1 projects in 2009. These priority projects Swan Canning Estuary comes from the This is supported by the community addressed. Local Governments in the to cater for Perth’s population growth there is still no requirement to manage were based on the Swan River Trust’s catchment via the urban drainage network. who are demanding more action and metropolitan area have united to take is placing increased pressure on these water quality in main drainage networks. Swan and Canning Rivers Foreshore Disused landfill sites are also potentially mobilising groups like ‘Save Our Swan’ leadership on this issue and investigate waterways, from their use as part of Assessment and Management Strategy contributing to the water quality problems The study into contaminants in Perth’s to improve the health of the rivers. These opportunities to improve the health and the drainage network, to the impacts of 4 (2008). Commissioning of these important being experienced in waterways. Harmful industrial drains found that all four drains groups demonstrate that the community condition of this nationally significant fertiliser practices of farming and residential works will protect natural and urban assets contaminants such as pesticides, heavy in the study were contaminated to some is concerned and would be supportive of catchment which is home to more than 70 communities. Water quality condition but as yet has not been successful in metals and hydrocarbons can leach degree. Contaminants found included: actions to improve water quality. per cent of WA’s population. impacts greatly on the social, cultural, obtaining funding due to a lack of State into the groundwater system and enter hormones, (in particular the synthetic economic, recreational and environmental Government support. surface water bodies. A WALGA survey hormone ethinylestradiol), polychlorinated 2.1.2 Shoreline Protection values of these waterways. Excess 2.1 Current Issues conducted in 2010 found that there are an biphenyls (PCBs), metals (including A number of shoreline protection works, An integrated holistic approach to nutrients from a variety of sources have aluminum, arsenic, lead, chromium, shoreline protection in the context of The health of the rivers and wetlands estimated 17 disused landfill sites along including river wall renewal and foreshore caused eutrophication and seasonal algal copper, nickel and zinc), polycyclic aromatic climate change adaptation would ensure in the Swan Canning catchment and the river system, covering an estimated rehabilitation projects have been identified blooms in the major river systems and in hydrocarbons (PAHs), total petroleum the future protection of Perth’s social, popular beaches in Perth’s coastal 300 hectares. as requiring urgent works. These many wetlands. The issue is so concerning hydrocarbons (TPHs), surfactants (both economic and environmental assets. Local catchments are fundamental to the health structures help to protect property and that the SRT now monitors algal activity Septic tanks are also a significant source anionic and non-ionic forms), phenolic Government has already made major and wellbeing of the Perth community. other infrastructure, including roads, from and has developed website-based of nutrients; contributing 18% TN and 8% compounds (in particular phenol and investments in riverbank infrastructure. The Swan Canning river system adds 3 flooding. Deteriorating infrastructure poses algal activity reports. The need for the TP to the Swan Canning river system. creosol) and nutrients. These contaminants The City of Perth, for example, has enormous value to the urban landscape a public liability risk and could potentially construction of oxygenation plants in both These levels are as high as 50% TN are harmful to human and ecological invested a total of $4.5 million in river wall for its ecological, social, cultural and cause significant damage if not adequately the Swan and Canning Rivers conjures and 62% TP in the Mills Street Main health and some also have the potential construction in the past four years. amenity values. Described by Premier, addressed. Climate change will increase images of a loved one on life support. Drain sub-catchment where land-use to accumulate in aquatic organisms. The Colin Barnett as ‘the City’s greatest asset’ pressures on existing infrastructure and is Natural foreshore areas provide important Non-nutrient contaminants are also is predominantly industrial. The lack of drains in this study discharge into major in his Premier’s statement to Parliament likely to warrant the construction of new barriers from urban development and emerging as major concern for the health deep sewerage in some residential and lakes, groundwater and Swan River of February 2010, it is a central focus in river walls to cope with increased sea level contain fringing vegetation which helps to of the waterways and the communities all industrial areas is having a significant tributaries. Herdsman Lake and Balgay both our Indigenous and Colonial history. they have served for millennia. impact on the health of the waterways. rise and storm surges. strip nutrients and trap sediment. These Drain also discharge to a popular swimming areas also provide key habitat for native This iconic river system is under stress. The State Government recently announced The Swan Canning Rivers Foreshore Since the early 1990’s, there has been beach at Floreat. fauna. The protection of these areas Water quality, in terms of oxygen, nutrients a commitment to a budget of $100 million Assessment and Management Strategy widespread recognition that the Swan The Baseline Study into contaminants in from weed invasion, unregulated access, and non-nutrient contaminant levels, is in over four years to complete the Infill (2008) identified four main problems and Canning Rivers are experiencing the Swan and Canning Estuaries5 also had inappropriate uses, pollution, boat wash serious decline. Natural foreshore areas Sewerage Program. However, it has stated related to foreshore stability. These were: significant water quality problems. The concerning results. The middle portion of and sea level rise is crucial to the health are degraded due to erosion, access it will not consider sewering industrial inadequate foreshore setback; inadequate

2 Australian Government. Improving Coastal Hot Spots. Retrieved 14/08/10 from www.environment.gov.au 4 Department of Water (2009) ‘A Snapshot of Contaminants in Perth’s industrial areas’, in Water Science Technical Series, Perth, WA: Government of Western Australia. 3 Swan River Trust. (2009) Swan Canning Water Quality Improvement Plan. Perth, WA.: Government of Western Australia. 5 Department of Water (2009) ‘A Baseline study into contaminants in the Swan Canning Estuaries’, in Water Science Technical Series, Perth, WA: Government of Western Australia. 6 Department of Water (2009) ‘A Baseline Study of contaminants in the Swan and Canning catchment drainage system’, in Water Science Technical Series, Perth, WA: Government of Western Australia. 7 Swan River Trust (2008) Swan and Canning Rivers Foreshore Assessment and Management Strategy, Perth, WA: Government of Western Australia. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 07

2.0 Background

of the catchment. Natural foreshores promotes biodiversity, restores natural Changes will also be required to how Six dolphins were recently found dead 2.1.5 Land Development improve the health, amenity and access are important social, amenity, cultural water cycles and can also provide an the existing “main” drainage system in the Swan River, accounting for The Swan Canning catchment is under to waterways through innovation and and ecological spaces which need to be opportunity for water harvesting. In a administered by Water Corporation an estimated quarter of the resident increasing pressure from development. water sensitive urban design. Mechanisms managed in balance with these significant, rapidly drying climate, stormwater should is managed. A policy shift is required population. A report into these deaths The City of Perth is one of the fastest are needed to provide incentives for this yet sometimes competing uses. increasingly be used as a non-drinking to ensure the design and operation of found “The most likely cause was an growing municipalities, with a rapidly industry to transform urban developments water source. Implementation of WSUD main drains progressively transition increase in viral, bacterial and/or fungal to achieve better environmental, social and 2.1.3 Urban drainage growing residential population directly restores the connection between the to implement best practice to realise infection(s), during conditions when the adjacent to the Swan Canning Estuary. economic outcomes. infrastructure community and waterways and replicates water quality, quantity and harvesting river system was flushed with fresh water Perth’s northern and southern suburbs are 2.1.6 Climate Change The water quality problems experienced natural drainage processes. opportunities in the catchment. The associated with rainfall events. It is not also growing and will contribute additional in the Swan Canning catchment There is also opportunity to create Water Corporation is well poised to feasible to determine if other factors have nutrient loads to waterways. Better Urban The onset of climate change in the South are exasperated by ageing urban wetlands, restore sections of the natural contribute to waterway health because predisposed the dolphins to disease Water Management 2008 is the first step West of the state is likely to increase infrastructure. Traditional drainage systems drainage system and create living streams of its operational obligations to maintain but possibilities include exposure to in ensuring water is considered throughout the number of hot, dry days which will which are designed to collect and convey as part of a treatment train approach the main drainage network. This contaminants and stress induced by the planning process. Local Governments increase evaporation rates and reduce 8 stormwater to waterways facilitate the for urban stormwater. This approach organisational shift is likely to require human activities.” are working with developers to implement recharge to groundwater aquifers and the transfer of nutrients from the catchment provides additional habitat for wildlife and changes to the legislation, Operating Healthy waterways should be the goal of WSUD but what is lacking is an incentive flow to waterways. Increased numbers into the river system, beaches and has many additional environmental and Licence or Charter governing the Water not only land managers in the catchment, for developers to implement best practice. of extreme storm events are expected groundwater. The backlog of maintenance Corporation, or a combination of these. to cause more flash flooding affecting social benefits. but the wider community. The health of Nutrient offsetting is an important step works for these systems limits the amount infrastructure and natural environments. The implementation of best management 2.1.4 Waterway health the waterways is a shared responsibility forward in reducing the impact of land of money that can be invested into Coastal areas’ infrastructure and natural practices for Local Government activities which needs greater commitment and development on water quality. The SRT best management practice and water There is a plethora of both quantified investment. Current arrangements see silo environments are vulnerable to sea level can be successfully achieved through the developed a draft Policy which supports 10 sensitive urban design. Current funding is and anecdotal evidence that the health rise and inundation. The low winter development and holistic application of projects to improve waterway health with a nutrient offsetting, although this is inadequate to allow Local Government or of Perth’s waterways is in decline. Gone rainfall in 2010 has reduced streamflow Municipal Urban Stormwater Management lack of integration or strategic alignment. voluntary in nature. The introduction of a the SRT to address existing water quality are the days of holding swimming lessons considerably in the Canning River which Plans. These Plans would require the Improving waterway health can be compulsory nutrient offsetting scheme for issues, let alone prevent future problems. at the Canning Baths. As are the days of has resulted in the Kent Street weir collection of drainage network and sub family and friends catching prawns in the achieved through better collaboration the metropolitan area where developer boards being left in over winter and spring Furthermore, the lack of Water catchment data and the prioritisation of Swan River – there are simply no prawns and integration of programs and among contributions are calculated based on for the first time to prevent saltwater Corporation investment into water these areas for water quality improvement left, and if there were, the Department of stakeholders. Wetland restoration and nutrient discharge loads would further moving upstream. The period of 1st April quality improvements through the arterial works. Stormwater Quality Management Health would issue warnings against eating conservation is essential to bring life back encourage developers to reduce nutrients 2010 to 31st March 2011 was the driest drainage network is a concern. The Water Plans will assist Local Government to them. The recent dredging in Fremantle to the system and improve the resilience from catchments and would allow other on record for Perth and much of the Corporation manages 828 kilometres strategically identify and address:- Port caused the development of a huge of the ecosystem to invasive pests and agencies with more knowledge and South West region. This has impacted of main drains in the metropolitan n the generation of pollutants from plume of sediment containing pesticides the impacts of climate change. Overall, expertise to develop projects to offset on water availability for ecosystems area to prevent flooding. These drains the urban catchment through a raft and other chemicals and metals. the waterways will become more like these loads. and water supplies for residents and are designed solely for collection and of structural and non- structural their natural state with greater capacity to In Victoria, the EPA developed guidelines9 businesses through the Integrated Water conveyance of stormwater, which The removal of much of the riparian measures; adapt to future impacts associated with for nutrient outputs from development. Supply Scheme. discharges into the Swan Canning vegetation along the rivers has taken land development, climate change and These guidelines included an 80% river system, wetlands, beaches and n opportunities for stormwater harvesting away crucial breeding grounds for aquatic Poor water quality and inadequacies in population increase. sediment load reduction and a 45% groundwater system. and water quality improvements; biota and water birds. The removal of asset management have reduced the this vegetation has also taken away A comprehensive ecological health decrease in nitrogen and phosphorous. resilience of waterways to the effects n community education and partnerships Effectively this means that there is no the buffering capacity of the system to monitoring, evaluation and reporting Although initially voluntary, these guidelines of climate change. The Swan Canning with other stakeholders. treatment for significant volumes of urban remove nutrients and contaminants from program needs to be developed so became enforceable under the Victorian river system has been changing to a stormwater, and that opportunities for its Programs would be delivered across the receiving waters. Fringing vegetation that the current state of the waterways Planning Provisions when they were more marine environment since the reuse as a non-drinking water supply, are metropolitan area for Local Governments plays a crucial role in the wetland system, is known and conveyed to the wider amended to include the targets for nutrient establishment of the Fremantle Port. not being realised. to ensure consistency and avoid the providing habitat, breeding grounds community and to ensure future reduction. Where developments cannot With human settlement also came the There is significant opportunity to address current piecemeal approach to urban and ‘nurseries’ for young organisms, investment is guided by sound and reach these targets, developers must pay development of many of Perth’s wetlands the 40% of nutrients that enter the river water management. Similar plans stripping nutrients, providing oxygen and rigorous research. a financial contribution which generates for housing, infrastructure and landfill. system via drainage networks through which have been developed for priority controlling foreshore erosion. Healthy waterways will lead to a healthier $1 million annually for Melbourne Water in The loss of these wetlands and transition catchments would be incorporated into the Port Phillip/Westernport region. (See the implementation of best management The transition of the system to a more community. There will be improved tourism to impervious surfaces has increased Local Government Stormwater Quality Appendix 6.7) practice and water sensitive urban marine environment has impacted on and other economic opportunities and pressure on the drainage network. Many Management Plans. There are a range design (WSUD). The SCWQIP identifies aquatic life and will continue to do so into improved potential for activity and access. Land development and redevelopment of Perth’s beaches and foreshore assets of examples across Australia (and WSUD, engineering modifications and the future. The impacts of this transition Passive use of the waterways will increase is essential to meet the housing and are under threat from sea level rise and internationally) from which best practice local water quality improvement plans need to be further monitored and as the ecological health improves and infrastructure needs of Perth’s population, erosion as a result of storm surges. approaches can be modelled, including as major management measures to managed. Environmental flows are also a encourages people back to restore the which is expected to increase by half a All spheres of Government have a duty the Victorian Stormwater Action Program, reduce phosphorous and nitrogen loads. key issue for the system, which has been connectivity between the community and million in the next 20 years. Development to protect natural assets like the Swan the Healthy Waterways Partnership in The inclusion of treatment mechanisms greatly altered through the creation of the rivers. Everyone in Western Australia is a threat to the health of our waterways and Canning river system, and to act south-east Queensland and the New for water quality improvement not only dams, dredging and removal of wetlands will benefit from a healthy and vibrant and way of life if it continues in an in the best interests of the community. South Wales Stormwater Trust. aids in the removal of harmful nutrients since European settlement. Swan Canning catchment. unsustainable way. Land development Waterway health has long been neglected and contaminants from stormwater, it presents an opportunity rather, to as a major issue in Western Australia

8 Beazley, L. (2010) Dolphin deaths in the Swan Canning Riverpark and comments on the Bunbury inner waters, South-west of Western Australia. Perth, WA: Murdoch University. 9 Victorian Stormwater Committee,(1999) Urban Stormwater: Best Practice Environmental Management Guidelines, Melbourne, VIC: CSIRO Publishing. 10 http://www.walgaclimatechange.com.au Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 09

2.0 Background

but there now presents an opportunity Professor Rebekah Brown in her 2.2 Water Reform 2.3 Stakeholders n Resolving disputes or other problems Water Corporation to address this issue through a united presentation at the Perth Urban Drainage before they become impediments to The Water Corporation is the state’s major An objective of the draft Water Services There are a number of stakeholders who approach, to develop resilience and Summit into Creating a Water Sensitive improved environmental outcomes. water service provider. In the metropolitan Bill is to license drainage service providers, have statutory planning and infrastructure adapt to climate change. City (2009) identified the following enabling A similar model needs to be adopted in area, the Water Corporation is responsible which can include Local Government. management responsibilities within the transition variables: Western Australia for the Swan Canning for the management of main drains and 2.1.7 Community interaction A three year exemption for Local catchment. The coordination of these 1. Socio-Political Capital: Aligned catchment. This would lead to improved is legislated under the Metropolitan Water Government has been applied to allow the statutory stakeholders is fundamental to The Swan and Canning rivers and community, media and political water quality outcomes, clearly defined Authority Act 1982 to manage water Department of Water a transition period to the health of the waterways. A partnership wetlands throughout the catchment are concern for improved waterways roles and responsibilities for water quantity in these drains. prepare for this new licensing regime. The agreement in which each agency commits highly valued by the community. However health, amenity and recreation. quality management and improved Association has requested an extension to water quality improvement will be Under the Act: “The Corporation has the the use of these waterways has changed working relationships among statutory 2. Bridging Organisation: A dedicated on this exemption and is awaiting a an important step forward. This model control and management of main drains over time. Once lively swimming areas, stakeholders. A draft model Partnership organising entity that facilitates formal exemption order. There may be an has been adopted in Victoria where the and main drainage works, and shall cause they are now rarely used by swimmers. Agreement between the Department of collaboration across science and opportunity to introduce service standards Protecting our Bays and Waterways all main drains and main drainage works This may be due to declining water Water, Water Corporation, Swan River policy, agencies and professions, and and water quality targets for drainage Partnership Agreement was developed to be constructed, maintained, kept and quality, limited access to foreshores or Trust and WALGA has been provided in knowledge brokers and industry. providers if a voluntary framework fails. between the Environmental Protection cleansed with due regard to the Scheme the increased use of recreational boating Appendix 6.5. vehicles. Nevertheless, the community 3. Trusted and Reliable Science: This is not explicit within the draft Bill but Authority Victoria, Municipal Association and the health and convenience of the has certainly changed its recreational use Accessible scientific expertise, may become part of the regulations which of Victoria and Melbourne Water for urban Outlined below is a brief summary of the public.” Under the current interpretation of the rivers. Boating, sailing, canoeing innovating reliable and effective support the legislation. Local Government stormwater management in the Port present role and functions of the main of the legislation, the Water Corporation and jet skiing are dominant activities on solutions to local problems. is currently exempt from all drainage Phillip and Westernport catchments. The stakeholders, who would form part of the is not required to address water quality any day on the rivers. It is important that licensing, meaning their operations are purpose of the Agreement is to “set out proposed partnership model, with the considerations. The Corporation 4. Binding Targets: A measurable and these values are protected because they largely unregulated. the accountabilities of each of the parties aim of highlighting their key roles in the manages 828 kilometres of drains in the effective target that binds the change proposed partnership. metropolitan area, diverting water from contribute to the lifestyle of Perth but The licensing of drainage will introduce who have a responsibility for stormwater activity of scientists, policy makers and more than 400,000 hectares of land and equally important is the need to restore the costs, potential auditing and service management and engender their Swan River Trust developers. preventing the flooding and water- logging values of the past so that the rivers provide standards for Local Government. The commitment to improving the management 12 The Swan River Trust (SRT) is a state of approximately 260,000 properties.15 multi-use, safe recreational opportunities. 5. Accountability: A formal current reform process is a perfect of urban stormwater quality”. This was organisational responsibility to the developed out of a voluntary process government agency responsible for The foreshores are still popular picnicking opportunity to establish a framework for The purpose of the Water Corporation, improvement of waterway health, and where each stakeholder acknowledged the protection and management of the and recreational areas and are important improving water quality and introducing as outlined in its 2009 Annual Report a cultural commitment to proactively their roles and responsibilities and made Swan Canning river system. The SRT is locations for Perth’s iconic events including a sustainable funding mechanism which is “Sustainable management of water influence practices that lead to such an a commitment to improving water quality. legislated under the Swan and Canning the City of Perth Skyworks and Red Bull requires community and Government Rivers Management Act 2006, which services to make Western Australia a great outcome. contribution. It is also an opportunity to Similar approaches have been developed place to live and invest”. The Corporation Air Race. This Plan hopes to enable richer as part of the South East Queensland replaced the Swan River Trust Act 6. Strategic Funding: Additional legislate service providers to improve has pledged commitment to meet current and more organic interactions with the Healthy Waterways Partnership.13 1988. The Swan and Canning Rivers river system so that it can be enjoyed by resources, including external funding management of both water quality and Management Act 2006 is designed to and anticipated needs for water sources, current and future generations. Its aim is to injection points, directed to the water quantity and drive integrated urban The key to this agreement is the protect the ecological, social, cultural and services and infrastructure without bring the community back to the rivers so change effort. water management and the move toward commitment to action by the partners. amenity values of the Swan and Canning compromising those of future generations becoming a water sensitive city. These are listed broadly as: by minimising impact to the environment.16 they can be reconnected with its natural 7. Demonstration Projects and Rivers and associated land, establishing beauty and continue to have valuable Training: Accessible and reliable The development of a Partnership n Working with common principles of the Riverpark as the jurisdiction in which There is an opportunity for the Water experiences. demonstration of new thinking and Agreement with a commitment to water urban stormwater management. the SRT operates its various planning, Corporation to realise this commitment protection and management functions.14 through participation in a partnership technologies in practice, accompanied quality improvement will foster greater n Establishment of performance 2.1.8 Becoming a water approach to urban water management. by knowledge diffusion initiatives. trust and understanding between Local objectives to guide planning and The SRT was allocated $12.18 million sensitive city and State Governments. This kind of The Corporation collects a drainage rate 8. Market Receptivity: A well articulated design of urban stormwater systems. in the 2010/11 State Budget to carry The concept of water sensitive urban model has worked well in Victoria where out its management responsibilities. In for the operational and capital costs of business case for the change activity. n Strategic application of the best design may have originated in Perth but the Victorian Stormwater Action Program addition to this, it receives funding from managing water quantity in declared It is clear that Perth lacks many, if not all practice tools, in the context of the city has been slow to integrate the was implemented successfully with no sponsors and the State Government on an main drains, a mechanism that could be the enabling variables to become a water agreed principles and performance concept and transition to a water sensitive legislative amendment. irregular basis. In 2010 it was successful expanded to include a wider catchment sensitive city. This Proposal is essentially objectives, through urban stormwater city. There is a lack of agreement and in obtaining an additional $3.19 million for area and to further address water quality the business case for change which management planning. leadership on the water quality problem in implementation of the SCWQIP. This level management. A significant contribution hopes to address the gaps where these Perth as well as a “lack of a coordinated n Monitoring of best practice of resourcing is very modest in relation has been made to research within the variables are not being met to progress science-policy agenda around waterways environmental management practices to the complexity of river and catchment main drains, however a mechanism is Perth towards reaching its potential as an protection.”11 Political will and complacency for urban stormwater management. restoration demands. needed to ensure that this research have also been barriers which have been innovative, sustainable and progressive translates into implemented works. n Review and refinement of financial and The SRT would be a key stakeholder holding Perth back from reaching its urban city. administrative arrangements to deliver in a partnership model given their key Given the Water Corporation’s statutory potential as a water sensitive city. the required outcomes in the most responsibilities for the Riverpark. responsibility for main drainage, its cost-effective manner. current rating system and the need for the management approach to drainage to be transformed over time, they are key part of this partnership approach.

11 Brown, R., Keath, N. and Wong, T. (2008). Transitioning to Water Sensitive Cities: Historical, Current and Future Transition States, In Ashley, R.M. (Ed.) Proceedings of the 11th International Conference 12 Protecting our Bays and Waterways Partnership Agreement between EPA, MAV and Melbourne Water for urban stormwater management in the Port Phillip and Westernport catchments, Melbourne, VIC: State on Urban Drainage, Edinburgh, Scotland, 31st August - 5th September 2008, CD-ROM. Government Victoria. 13 http://www.healthywaterways.org/aboutus.aspx 14 http://www.swanrivertrust.wa.gov.au/trust/about/Content/Home.aspx 15 http://www.water.wa.gov.au/About+us/default.aspx 16 Water Corporation.(2009) Annual Report 2009, Perth, WA: Water Corporation. Retrieved 14/08/10 from http://www.watercorporation.com.au/_files/PublicationsRegister/6/2009AR_FULLVERSION.pdf Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 11

2.0 Background

Department of Water Local Government, as a catchment are focussed on improving water quality The Water Corporation also receives Local Government is also restricted from In developing this proposal, a number The Department of Water is responsible for manager, key infrastructure and asset in the catchment. SRT funded programs Community Service Obligation (CSO) applying for Community Service Obligation of background investigations have been managing the state’s water resources and owner and land-use planning decision- like Great Gardens and Ribbons of Blue payments from the State Government on (CSO) payments from State Treasury to undertaken in relation to alternative ensuring water services are provided to making authority, is a key part of the also play a very important role in increasing an annual basis. In the metropolitan area, assist in covering the costs of servicing approaches internationally and within all West Australians. Its role in measuring partnership, particularly as it relates to the community understanding and awareness these provide for concessions granted pensioners and those in financial hardship. Australia. A summary of this background and allocating the state’s water resources, implementation of improvement programs. of waterway issues. to pensioners and seniors. In 2009/10, work has been included in Appendix 6.3. setting rules for extraction, wetland Department of Planning and Western There are already a number of initiatives CSO payments for the metropolitan area management, leading and supporting Australian Planning Commission targeted at protecting and managing totalled $2.1 million. Main drain services in the localities of Albany, Harvey, Waroona, water-related scientific knowledge and The integration of water management in waterways in the catchment. What is “overseeing” water service providers is lacking is an integrated, coordinated Roelands, Mundijong and Busselton are Map 1: Water Corporation drainage areas in the the planning process has been recently entirely CSO funded.18 These country metropolitan region, as at September 2010. supported by legislation. The Department enhanced by Better Urban Water strategy to link the various stakeholders is responsible for protecting water quality, and projects together. This has meant drainage systems, however, are outside of Management, adopted by the Western the focus of this discussion paper. preparing policies and plans for future Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) that projects are often localised and development, analysis of water resources in 2008. These guidelines are designed not developed as part of a strategic The map below shows the areas which are information, issuing licences and regulating to facilitate better management of framework. currently charged a drainage rate through 17 water use. urban water resources by ensuring an Another issue is the lack of consistent the annual Water Corporation water rates The Department is currently driving the appropriate level of consideration is given funding streams, which results in valuable billing and collection system. This rate state’s water reform agenda which will see to the total water cycle at each stage programs being defunded. The SCWQIP applies to residential, commercial and the creation of three Acts to consolidate of the planning system. The document has prioritised areas for action and the industrial properties. and modernise the plethora of water provides guidance on the implementation River Protection Strategy has identified Local Governments fund local drainage legislation currently operating in the state. of State Planning Policy 2.9 Water stakeholders for implementation. An initial works through the collection of rates. These are the: Water Services Legislation Resources. The Guideline looks at what investment to fund these projects and Some Local Governments leverage funds Amendment and Repeal Bill, the Water information is needed at the regional, the development of ongoing, sustainable through developer contributions or ‘special Services Bill and the Water Resources district, local and development scales from funding mechanisms are now essential to area’ rates where considerable works Management Bill. government departments and developers. improve the management of catchment are required. In 2004, the City of Swan As the state agency responsible for water This is a useful first step in ensuring land inputs and the health of receiving Council endorsed a special area drainage resource management, the Department of development does not negatively impact environments. rate in the Midland District Drainage Area Water has a significant role to play in the on water quality. What is lacking however at the same rate levied by the Water partnership. is regulation and enforceable target setting 2.4 Drainage rate Corporation. Most Local Governments, for water quality improvement. however, fund drainage works through Local Government A drainage rate is currently collected from normal budgetary expenditure which is The planning system presents an residential and commercial customers Local Government plays an important land- subject to consideration of competing important opportunity to minimise the across 40% of the Perth Metropolitan use planning and foreshore management priorities, including the expenditure needs nutrient loads entering waterways, Area. The rate is collected by the Water role and is responsible for the management of other services and the income available especially considering Perth’s growing Corporation for water quantity protection of the majority of the drainage networks population and urban expansion. WAPC for drainage service provision in a given works in its declared main drains. These 19 throughout the catchment. These typically year. The collection of a drainage rate and the Department of Planning have are areas which have been declared consist of traditional systems designed by individual Local Governments is not critical roles in the ongoing implementation drainage areas under the Metropolitan for maximum collection and conveyance supported because it restricts investment of best water management practices. Water Authority Act 1982. The minimum of stormwater to waterways and other and precludes a strategic approach to rate has increased from $67.40 per receiving environments. Local Government Other stakeholders urban water management investment. household in 2009-2010 to $75.45 in does play a key role in recharging There are a number of other statutory A further complication is that Section 6.37 2010-11 and applies to multiple and superficial aquifers through drainage and non-statutory stakeholders which of the Local Government Act 1993 states single dwellings. A rate is also collected sump infrastructure, however water quality have a responsibility for catchment that special area rates must be raised on from commercial properties, although considerations have only been adopted in management. These include developers, rateable land within a specific area where a limitation is applied for significant recent years, and in an ad hoc fashion. private landholders, indigenous groups, ratepayers will benefit, have access to GRV increases. This created a revenue businesses and State owned agencies like or contribute to the need for that work The sector has demonstrated varying stream of $36 million in 2009/10. The 20 Main Roads. Westralia Airports Corporation service or facility. levels of commitment to best management Water Corporation also receives an and other private enterprises are also practice, WSUD and urban stormwater additional $4 million per annum from responsible for local drainage management harvesting opportunities. The variation Standard Headworks Contributions in within the catchment. Community and in uptake of best practice technology new developments. This rate is currently catchment groups like Perth Region NRM in the sector may be due to the limited $490.00 per lot. These funds are not and South East Regional Centre of Urban funding and incentives available and allocated to water quality or waterway Landcare will be engaged and become also the increasing maintenance and protection works. replacement costs associated with existing part of the overall strategy. These groups infrastructure. currently manage a number of on-ground and community awareness projects which

17 http://www.water.wa.gov.au/About+us/default.aspx 18 ACIL Tasman (2009) Advice on Water Corporation’s Drainage Charges, Prepared for the Economic Regulation Authority, Perth, WA: ACIL Tasman. 19 ACIL Tasman (2009) Advice on Water Corporation’s Drainage Charges, Prepared for the Economic Regulation Authority, Perth, WA: ACIL Tasman 20 Local Government Act 1995 (WA) Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 13

3.0 Investment

The SRT’s draft River Protection 3.2 River wall and Swan Canning Catchment Current funding arrangements are ad 3.4 Investment needs Priority projects for drainage renewal have Strategy (July 2010) estimates that n $3.4 million Federal Government hoc and lack a consistent, coordinated not been identified, so the total deficit has As highlighted above, the SRT has current investment into Riverpark shoreline protection funding matched with $3 million cash approach. The Riverbank grants program been used. The longer it takes to fund management is $72.36 million annually, is delivered in a more strategic way, using estimated the total cost of addressing these infrastructure projects, the more The SRT’s draft River Protection Strategy and in-kind from State Government with approximately $39 million allocated identified priority projects from the Swan identified Priority 1 works for repairing or safety risks they pose to the general public estimates that Local Government invests agencies, Local Governments and to water quality improvement and and Canning River Foreshore Assessment replacing currently damaged built shoreline and the more environmental damage $4.34 million in river wall and shoreline NRM groups for the Urban Waterways intervention programs. Total Local and Management Strategy 2008, although infrastructure in the Swan Canning river they cause. Funding needed for wetland protection per annum, with agency/NRM Renewal program 2010-12 Government expenditure on the this funding is limited to approximately system to be $190 million.22 Under the management (external to Swan Canning contributions totalling $2.89 million. River Riverpark was estimated to be $23.2 n $3.2 million from State NRM funding and $1-$2 million per year with a required 50% existing Riverbank grants program, it river system) water quality monitoring wall protection is a shared responsibility, million for 2009/10, incorporating the 21 $2.5 million from Caring for our Country contribution from Local Government. The would take over 63 years to complete and community education has not been with the State Government contributing Local Governments that are adjacent to for implementation of Swan Canning State Government has made considerable these projects. Local Government invests included in the above figure. 50% of total capital costs via the SRT the river system. The Local Government Water Quality Improvement Plan investment into the health of the Swan $4.34 million each year to shoreline annual budget. Local Government also The likelihood of sourcing this amount of sector is the biggest collective investor and Canning river systems, and other maintenance works which includes makes significant investments into n $1.15 million for Riverbank 2010, money is low, however steps need to be in the Riverpark. The majority of this waterways, both through consistent approximately $1.5 million for upgrade and managing natural foreshore areas from $1.08 million to Local Government taken to reduce the gap between what investment is spent on community budget allocations for the SRT and replacement works. Under this timeframe, the impacts of erosion, inappropriate n $1 million from State Government for is currently invested and what is needed. benefit facilities and activities including through grants and additional funding. It it is likely that Priority 2 and 3 projects access and weed invasion. The investment oxygenation plant in Canning River This is a serious issue that needs to be park facilities and public open space is becoming evident, however, that this will have already progressed to Priority required to protect, stabilise and acknowledged by key decision-makers. maintenance although significant n $250,000 from State Government to investment is not leading to an overall 1 before all works are completed. It is rehabilitate highest priority areas on the A collaborative solution needs to be funding is also invested in ecosystem implement the recommendations of the improvement in water quality. acknowledged that the SRT is working to Riverpark shoreline is estimated at $190 identified. health works including river wall and Chief Scientist report into the deaths of address some of these issues through its million within the next 5 years.21 Federal Government funding for water dolphins in the Swan River in 2009 Asset Management Program. shoreline protection works and water quality projects has been available to quality improvement. This figure does 3.3 Funding n $300,000 from State Government Local Government for the past five It would take 76 years to meet the not include complementary investments to implement local water quality years. The Community Water Grants estimated $650 million shortfall for ageing made to activities outside of the There currently exists a major funding gap improvement plans funding was utilised by a number of Local and deficient drainage infrastructure Riverpark boundary. to address the issues associated with under current funding arrangements. This n $250,000 from State Government to Governments to fund small retrofitting water quality and asset management. estimate does not take into account the undertake audits of small business projects. Recent funding out of the ‘Water 3.1 Urban drainage Local Governments do not charge a for the Future’ program has targeted large significant maintenance investment made drainage rate despite managing significant n $100,000 State Government funding by Local Government. WALGA conducted a survey of Local scale projects, usually with a minimum $2 urban drainage systems across the entire for the Swan Landcare Program Government urban drainage asset million contribution from proponents. This The River Protection Strategy has catchment area. Available grant funding management in June 2010 to determine n $100,000 State Government funding has been out of reach for most WA Local estimated additional future resources is short-term, highly fragmented, ad hoc the current funding deficits. The first to identify sources of non-nutrient Governments. The Department of Water needed for Riverpark projects to be and lacks strategic focus. Below are some notable observation was the lack of contaminants has been working with Local Government $98 million over five years. This figure examples of recent water quality funding to set up joint projects to raise the required consistency in Local Government asset n $50,000 State Government funding does not include river wall or drainage announcements: minimum contribution. There may be management systems and the lack of to undertake weed eradication and infrastructure but does include wider opportunities in the future to attract existing data for urban drainage networks Avon catchment planting Riverpark investments for cultural heritage, Federal Government funding for water in some Local Governments. n $150,000 State Government grant facilities, research etc. n $300,000 State Government funding quality projects, particularly after the State to remove sediment from Avon River The drainage asset funding shortfall is for River Rangers program has implemented water law reform. Total investment needs for assets are There currently exists estimated to be $650 million (total upgrade channel therefore estimated to be $938 million n $1.1 million State Government funding Infrastructure Australia is also a source of cost). This assessment was obtained using n $200,000 through State NRM funding over five years. a major funding gap for the Fertiliser Action Plan funding for Local Government but does replacement and existing values for assets for river pool dredging, fencing, not provide a guaranteed, sustainable to address the issues and the current investment made by revegetation n $3 million State Government funding to Local Government into renewal projects. install an underground barrier to stop revenue stream. The City of South Perth associated with water Local Government renewal expenditure is n $150,000 of Caring for Our Country contaminated groundwater entering coordinated an application to Infrastructure estimated to be $8.56 million per annum. funding to apply SQUARE model land the Helena River at Bellevue Australia for urgent foreshore infrastructure quality and asset use maps in 2011-13 repair works for $85 million. This project Maintenance expenditure is estimated n $1.15 million State Government has not been funded, and notably and management. to be $14 million per annum, with total funding to rehabilitate the degraded regrettably, the bid was not supported by expenditure for renewal, maintenance, Anvil Way drainage basin and create the State Government. upgrade and expansion totalling $28 new wetland million per year. This investment is largely n $180,000 State Government funding funded through normal budgetary process, for Phoslock trials with only a handful of Local Governments receiving external funding for infrastructure n $600,000 State Government funding upgrades in 2008/2009. for 35 on-the-ground projects n $15.5 million Water Corporation investment into sewer refurbishment

21 Swan River Trust, 2010, Draft River Protection Strategy, Government of Western Australia, Perth. 22 Swan River Trust, 2010, Draft River Protection Strategy, Government of Western Australia, Perth. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 15

4.0 Proposal Description

4.1 Proposal explanation To make the partnership work and 4.1.3 Healthy Catchments and strategic investment in assets and It is estimated that a Healthy Catchments residential properties at the minimum deliver outcomes, a key ingredient will Partnership Framework innovative engineering (hard and soft) rate could generate an additional $54 charge of $75.45, would generate The lack of a holistic, integrated and be a sustainable funding mechanism. solutions. million from the current drainage rate well over $30 million annually. With funded strategy for water quality A commitment to the design and delivery The approach developed here is one The Scientific Advisory Panel will also revenue, based on the current Water consideration for higher GRV properties improvement and asset management of a policy framework that includes the of ‘beneficiary pays’. This approach provide support and advice to the Board, Corporation cost structure of a minimum and the inclusion of industrial and has been a barrier to the implementation establishment of a sustainable funding considers that all those who benefit and will consist of scientific and research of $75 per rateable property. This would commercial, this would be expected to of best management practices and mechanism and a centralised Board to from the asset should contribute to its experts who will ensure the adoption of be generated by expanding the collection generate over $54 million annually under water quality improvement in receiving collect and distribute funds would be protection and remediation. There has research and science into evidence-based area to the entire metropolitan area. This the current costing structure waterways throughout Perth. The an important step forward in ensuring been comment that a ‘polluter pays’ policy outcomes and program design. This approach will require legislative change to This funding stream, in addition to nutrient SCWQIP has identified the priority areas the sustainable management of the approach is more appropriate, where Panel will be instrumental in centralising allow the rateable area to be expanded offsets (headworks) charges and potential and actions required to reduce nutrient catchment. This could be created in those at the source of nutrients should pay current research around waterway and to allow the Water Corporation to leveraging from federal and private sector loads entering the Swan Canning a number of different arrangements; more than those at receiving waterways. issues and ensuring that the benefits collect the rate on behalf of the Board. investment would add considerably to system but to date has only received however the Swan Canning Policy Forum A counter-argument to this is the fact of investment are quantified and well The exact funding that could be generated the current level of investment made by $3.19 million in direct funding for preferred model is presented in Figure 1. that those living close to waterways will communicated. Providing the empirical has not been calculated due to lack management agencies to the water quality implementation. Project-specific funding enjoy the benefits of waterway health This model is based on the principle base rationale for investment will be a key of data on the number and lot sizes of improvement and infrastructure shortfall. has also been allocated for water quality improvement. The environment is a shared that the community should share the focus of the Scientific Advisory Panel. residential and non-residential properties improvement works. A sustainable All funds raised through the healthy responsibility; therefore it is important that responsibility of protecting high-value in the metropolitan area. An indicative funding mechanism is needed to ensure catchments rate would be quarantined for all residents and businesses contribute to receiving environments. A healthy 4.1.4 Investment model cost estimate has been provided in lieu of the implementation of the SCWQIP, its protection. catchments rate would be paid by the the specific purposes for which it is raised The Healthy Catchments investment model further investigations. management of drainage and foreshore community for waterway health and asset and the Healthy Catchments Board would has been proposed because it has worked infrastructure and other activities which 4.1.2 Objectives management projects which would be There are an estimated 653,349 develop a funding allocation mechanism. successfully in other parts of Australia contribute to improved waterway collected by the Water Corporation, as residential dwellings in the Perth While a detailed allocation plan for the The Objective of this Priority Plan is and elsewhere. Similar models have health, improved asset management is currently done for 40% of the urban metropolitan area. Water Corporation funds raised would be developed as to recommend a preferred funding demonstrated water quality improvement and the realisation of the broader water area. This model is an expansion of the currently charges a minimum rate of phase 2 of this plan, the basic principle is mechanism and institutional arrangements and are now widely accepted by their resource policy objectives of the State current system, yet will ensure that rates $75.45 in 260,000 residential properties. to establish a mechanism that allocates that will result in: communities (See Appendix 6.3). Government. collected will be invested in both water Applying a rate to the remaining 393,349 funds across a range of priorities based on n Improved water quality in the rivers, quality and water quantity management. sound research and policy priorities. The waterways and groundwater 4.1.1 Approach These funds would then be administered allocation would address the key issues The overall approach is based on n Improved condition of built and by an independent Board, as directed facing land managers in the metropolitan partnership and shared ‘whole of natural foreshore areas through by the Minister for Environment; Water. Figure 1: Indicative architecture for Healthy Catchments Expenditure area by providing consistent and community’ responsibility for protecting its implementation of best practice Funds will be distributed to the relevant appropriate levels of funding to address both emerging and legacy concerns greatest assets, the Swan Canning river n Improved stormwater management to policy, planning and service providers and State Government strategically to improve the overall health system and the water quality of the Swan best practice standards the asset manager, to undertake water Coastal Plain. quality improvement works including n Minister for Water, Environment of waterways. n Increased community awareness about n stormwater management, shoreline Legislation For example, given Local Government’s As articulated in the Healthy Waterways water quality issues in the catchment Partnership program of South East protection, community education, role as statutory land-use planners, Queensland, the philosophy underlying n Behavioural change influenced to monitoring, scientific research and other drainage service providers and managers the Partnership’s approach rests on two reduce nutrients and contaminants activities which contribute to improving of public open space, an initial investment foundations: reaching waterways the health of receiving waterways. Technical Advisory Panel Healthy Catchments Board Scientific Advisory Panel could be allocated to assist Local Institutional arrangements for drainage n Water quality considerations integrated LG, SRT, WC, DoW, Board Members: LG, SRT, WC, DoW, CSIRO, Universities, Governments in dealing with legacy issues n A commitment to working in a management will be defined and agreed into land-use planning processes Research representatives DEC, DoP, Research, Community, Research representatives, and to create a consistent and accredited partnership where all partners can be to as part of this process. The Healthy Industry. Independent Chair nominated DoW, SRT urban stormwater management planning heard, contribute to decision-making n Current and future development Catchments Board will be made up of by Government process across the metropolitan area. and implement agreed actions. maintaining or improving water quality Local Government, Swan River Trust, Priorities identified in these plans would n Ensuring our strategies for managing n Increased trust, collaboration Water Corporation, Department of Water then be used to allocate a negotiated waterways is based on sound science, and understanding between key and the Department of Planning as well percentage of the funding received rigorous monitoring and adaptive stakeholders as community, industry and research through the healthy catchments rate. learning.23 representatives. Local Swan River Water Department Research Community n Improved river resilience to manage Government Trust Corporation of Water Bodies The Technical Advisory Panel will provide n Local Local Government was the key driver climate change impacts n Urban n Funding for n Water quality n Water n Urban Water projects in the Healthy Waterways Partnership, support and advice to the Board on the stormwater Healthy Rivers capital works planning Science Centre n Clarity about the roles and n Community technical opportunities and constraints, quality Action Plan program (ADS) for Excellence recognising that as major land managers, n Recovery education responsibilities of relevant stakeholders management it can make a significant contribution to particularly in terms of asset management. n Water quality n Community of drainage n Research plans waterway health in partnership with relevant The Panel will be made up of experts from improvement education planning and engineering and other related disciplines. n Shoreline plan charges development stakeholders and the wider community. n Revenue protection A key focus of this group will be to n River health collection n Water quality ensure implementation of cost-effective monitoring monitoring

23 http://www.healthywaterways.org/aboutus.aspx Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 17

4.0 Proposal Description

Below is an indicative allocation of the funds against some key program areas. The Healthy Catchments Board would be A move to a new pricing methodology is 4.2 Scope responsible for designing and developing compatible with ACIL Tasman consultants’ Healthy catchment rate Indicative allocations by Program the overall investment program and advice on the Water Corporation’s 4.2.1 Proposal area its sub-themes (in effect, its business drainage charges made to the Economic Allocation ($m) plan), submitting it to the Government Regulation Authority25 in relation to overall The proposal is for the rateable area to be defined as the Perth Metropolitan Program Eligible Recipient(s) Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Years for ratification, and upon approval, pricing mechanisms, and the move away Regional Scheme (MRS) area, comprising 5-10 administering these to land managers, from Gross Rental Value. By relating 30 metropolitan Local Governments. It Urban water capacity building New Waterways 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 catchment and community groups. The charges more closely to the costs imposed investment program will be based on by different properties, land area-based includes the Swan Canning catchment, Water Quality and Ecosystem Health DoW, SRT, Research 9 7 6 5 5 identified priorities determined through charging would improve equity and reduce covering 2126 kilometres and the coastal monitoring, evaluation and reporting framework rigorous research to ensure funding is the subsidisation from high GRV non- catchments north and south of the Swan Waterway health management LG, SRT, DEC, Community, Private sector 2 3 3 3 3 allocated to where it is most effective. residential properties. Canning river system. This area is also covered by the Metropolitan Water Supply, WQIP, Healthy Rivers Action Plan, RPS SRT 10 10 10 10 10 The Technical Advisory and Scientific The exact costs have not been determined Advisory Panels will play a critical role in Sewerage and Drainage Act 1909 and the Riverbank Program ($5 SRT:$1 LG) SRT 10 10 10 10 10 because of the lack of data available at the Metropolitan Water Authority Act 1982 ensuring Board decisions are evidence- time of publication on land areas for each Urban Stormwater Quality Management Plan LG 1 1 1 0 0 which gives head of power to the Water based. Recipients of funding will include category. development ($1:$1) Local Government, the Swan River Trust, Corporation to carry out drainage works. These Acts will be consolidated into the Urban Stormwater Quality Management Plan LG 4 8 8 8 5 industry, catchment groups and the wider Through the existing model the Water implementation community. Corporation receives a Community Service Water Services Act. Water Corporation Obligation (CSO) payment of $2.1 million declared drainage areas would need to be Strategic land acquisition DoW, LG, WAPC 3 3 3 3 3 4.1.5 Costing structure per year to allow them to subsidise seniors expanded under the proposed scheme. Investigation into impact of disused landfills and LG, DEC 4 5 6 8 8 There is also future scope to extend the The preferred costing model for the and pensioners. This ensures the rate remediation if required. proposal area to include the Peel-Harvey healthy catchments rate is an area-based is collected in an equitable way and it is catchment, and other priority catchments Community support and competitive grants Community organisations, LG 2 3 4 4 4 charge determined by land-use zonings recommended that this continues with the expansion of the rate. at a later date. Research grants Independent research bodies 2 2 2 3 2 (residential, non-residential), with each The proposed area includes the entire Administration costs for Board Independent Board 3 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 category tiered on land area. Indicative The proposed model bears little additional land area categories are provided below: cost to the Government, although there MRS because this will be the easiest to TOTAL ANNUAL INVESTMENT ($m) $50.20 $54.70 $55.70 $56.70 $52.70 is an expectation that it will contribute administrate and communicate to the TOTAL INVESTMENT (YRS 1-5) ($m) $270 Residential less minimum to the programs developed. An increase community. Expenditure would be confined than 1000m² residential rate in the CSO payment to the Water to the catchment in the first instance Residential median Corporation will be required, which is because all Perth residents benefit from a 1000m² – 10,000m² residential rate estimated to be an additional $3.1 million healthy river system with expansion to the This funding would be provided in addition investments based on quantified economic, Under the plan, Local Government per year based on current payments entire MRS area, as guided by research Residential more maximum to current investment and would leverage social and environmental benefits. This will receive $33 million over five years, for 40% of the metropolitan area. Once priorities. The timeline for this will be than 10,000m² residential rate additional contributions from service framework will be accessible to the general matched $1:$1, for Urban Stormwater established, the program is self-funding determined by the Healthy Catchments providers and other stakeholders. It public, as investors, so that they can see Management Plan implementation. Non-residential less minimum non- and provides a sustainable mechanism to Board, following advice from the Technical imposes no additional cost to government, their contribution to the program. This This investment will help facilitate the than 1000m² residential rate assist land mangers improve the health and Scientific Advisory Panels. apart from any initial investment would allow for greater accountability and implementation of best management of the river system, coast and waterways commitments and matched contributions ensure that only evidence-based activities practices, leading to an increased Non-residential median non- 4.2.2 Timeframe 1000m² – 10,000m² residential rate throughout the catchment, providing an from agencies. Once established, the are implemented. adoption of water sensitive urban design incentive-based framework to improve The program development and inter- program is self-funding and provides a An example of a benefit of this program and stormwater harvesting opportunities. Non-residential maximum non- service provision, asset management, the agency arrangement components of the sustainable mechanism to assist land is as follows: A $10 million investment In-kind contributions would also be more than 10,000m² residential rate ecological health and public amenity in proposal will begin once government mangers improve the health of the river per year, generated from the healthy accepted as matching contributions. and around the Swan Canning system, in-principle support and funding has system, its catchment and waterways. This catchments rate and allocated to the Disused landfill sites adjacent to the This is at variance with the current Water as well as water resource management been secured. It is envisaged that provides an incentive to improve service existing Riverbank Program, matched with Riverpark is a potential source of Corporation drainage rate calculation, opportunities and community engagement. the sustainable funding mechanism provision, asset management, ecological combined Local Government expenditure contamination that is not currently being which uses the rateable value of component will be established once health, public amenity, water resource of $2 million per year, will reduce the time addressed. $31 million over five years properties. The rateable value is the Gross all key stakeholders have entered into management, and community engagement. needed to address Priority 1 projects to 16 will assist in remediation, monitoring and Rental Value of the property (or estimated a partnership agreement and required The investment priorities would be years. Compared to the projected 63 years research. Disused landfill sites is a legacy gross annual rent) which is determined by changes have been made to current identified through sound scientific data under the current Riverbank program, this issue that needs to be addressed with the Valuer General. In 2010-11 the tariff is management arrangements. This could and research outcomes and would be will vastly improve river wall infrastructure appropriate investment via appropriate 0.791 cents for each dollar of the rateable potentially coincide with the proposed reviewed every five years. This program and natural foreshore areas management, instruments. The Association does value, with the minimum charge applied introduction of licensing to Local would also be accompanied by a rigorous in addition to the water quality dividend. It not consider the Landfill Levy as the being $75.45 per residence.24 Government for urban drainage services. monitoring, evaluation and reporting will also assist land managers to adapt to appropriate instrument to deal with legacy Once established, this project will be ‘learning’ framework which can be used the impacts of climate change by enabling issues from previous generations. self-funding. to demonstrate the effectiveness of them to address issues as they arise.

24 http://www.watercorporation.com.au/A/accounts_rates_metro_res.cfm 25 ACIL Tasman (2009) Advice on Water Corporation’s Drainage Charges, Prepared for the Economic Regulation Authority Perth, WA: ACIL Tasman, Perth. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 19

4.0 Proposal Description

4.3 Benefits 4.3.1 Community benefits 4.4 Relationship with 4.5 Impact of not The funding model proposed is based An outline of the benefits is presented in the table below: on a ‘beneficiary pays’ approach. The other projects proceeding with the wider community has been identified as This proposal will support statutory Proposal the major beneficiary of a healthy and stakeholders and complement many Benefit Economic Social Environmental The major impact of not proceeding with functioning river, wetland and coastal existing projects. SRT initiatives including this proposal is the continuation of water Water quality improvement Supports tourism and Increased use of river system Healthier habitat for organisms, system. Many of the benefits of this the SCWQIP, River Protection Strategy quality decline in the Swan Canning recreation enterprises for passive and active recreation reduce algal blooms and program will be long-term. Water quality, and the Swan and Canning Rivers catchment. This will result in more toxic on the river Improved amenity, health and fish kills in particular, will take time to show Foreshore Assessment and Management algal blooms, fish deaths and possible wellbeing improvement so the community will be Strategy will be complemented through the impacts to the resident dolphin population kept well informed on progress in this area. provision of funding for the implementation in the Swan River. The more time it takes Stormwater Management Opportunity for self-funding – Better connection with Reduction in nutrients and of recommended management actions. However, there will be short-term local to address these water quality issues, the return on investment waterways, improved amenity and sediment entering waterways, These documents have been used to benefits for the community. On-ground more difficult and costly future remediation opportunities for local ‘features’ habitats for waterbirds develop this Priority Plan and will provide projects at local sites will increase efforts become. Asset management Facilitates strategic investment, Safer, reliable infrastructure Improved water quality amenity and improve the ecological guidance for the implementation of the future cost savings services management function of waterways. Community overall program. The existing backlog of Local Government drainage works will continue to increase, engagement and education are a strong The proposal also complements providing less opportunity for the sector Catchment Management Productivity of agricultural land Improved health and wellbeing Reduction in nutrients applied focus and it is hoped that the community the Department of Water’s efforts in to adopt best management practices. increases of community to catchment through reduction will have more opportunities to get developing an Arterial Drainage Scheme Furthermore, the levels of service provided in use and behaviour change involved in the program. (ADS). A strategic approach to drainage for the community will decline and the will ensure that priority areas are identified Foreshore Restoration Supports tourism and Increased use of river system for Provides habitat for birds and Assets will be maintained appropriately frequency of failures in the drainage and improved. This proposal will assist to recreation enterprises passive and active recreation. other organisms, improves to ensure improved safety, amenity, system will increase. on the river Improved amenity, health and water quality and prevents water quality outcomes and resilience to collect data needed to develop an ADS. wellbeing erosion climate change; providing the community The New WAterways program will provide The Swan Canning Foreshore Assessment with more certainty about the quality of support and resources for stakeholders and Management Strategy (2008) noted Climate Change Adaptation Reduces future costs to fix Builds climate-resilient Protects natural assets services provided to them. This program who are involved in this project. that half of the structures along the Swan River require immediate maintenance. This problems. communities will ensure that urban landscapes and This proposal also aligns with the following report identified a number of foreshore Protects infrastructure Protects community assets drainage systems are better equipped strategic documents: to deal with natural disasters including areas vested with Local Government n State Planning Policy 2.9 Water Stakeholder relationships Opportunity for better Consistent messages, increase Opportunity for better flooding, to protect our communities as Priority 1 areas for action. These Resources collaboration, streamlining in trust of agencies collaboration and partnerships and infrastructure. By ensuring ongoing, included a number of significant structured of processes for environmental projects, sustainable funding for catchment n Better Urban Water Management foreshore projects and revegetation/ communication improvements foreshore management projects. Just 20% management, which is invested according n Stormwater Management Manual will lead to better data to rigorous scientific rationale, the of the vegetation surveyed was considered management and information community will enjoy the integration of n State Water Plan 2007 in good condition, with another 50% in moderate condition. Without sourcing sharing urban and natural landscapes in their n State Water Strategy 2003 local area and other places they visit additional funding to address these issues, Integration of existing Prevents duplication, waste of Consistency of key messages Improved management n Environment Protection and within the catchment. the health and useability of waterways in projects, plans and policies resources of natural resources, diversity Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 the Swan Canning catchment will continue of projects n Local Government Act 1995 to decline. Improved access and use of Tourism and commercial Improved health and wellbeing Community stewardship n Local Government Strategic Plans As identified in the Swan River Trust’s draft River Protection Strategy (RPS) waterways opportunities Spiritual connectedness with to protect waterways n WA Local Government Association waterways (July 2010), the economic value of Strategic Plan the major receiving environments is Protection and Tourism opportunities Improved understanding and Protection of waterways This proposal will also support work dependent on maintaining ecological enhancement of Indigenous awareness of indigenous heritage through community already being undertaken by Local health. A Curtin University study used in heritage stewardship Government including local water the RPS examined the total economic quality improvement plans, stormwater value (TEV) based on annualised revenue Protection and Tourism opportunities Improved understanding and Protection of waterways management plans and integrated water generated from the use of the Riverpark. enhancement of cultural awareness of cultural heritage through community management plans. This is conservatively estimated to be heritage and history stewardship $28.54 million. Indirect use values based on capital value of river related assets and residential property premiums are estimated to be $11.94 billion.26

26 Swan River Trust (2010) Draft River Protection Strategy, Perth, WA: Swan River Trust, p. 135. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 21

5.0 Conclusions and Recommendations

These figures do not consider the The use of the rivers 5.1 Conclusions 5.2 Recommendations economic values outside of the Riverpark area which would also be threatened if the may change if water ‘Business as usual’ is no longer an 1. The State Government works with health of waterways continues to decline. option when it comes to the health of key statutory stakeholders to develop quality continues the Swan Canning catchment. Despite an equitable and on-going funding Without an appropriate framework to commendable investment from a number mechanism to improve the health of manage the Swan Canning system and to decline and poor of land managers and agencies, the water the Swan Canning Catchment and other high-value receiving environments, ‘Business as usual’ management of assets quality of the system continues to decline river assets, the economic benefits that are generated and the state of foreshores, river walls is no longer an option from these waterways will be impacted. reduces the amenity 2. Local Government develops and drainage infrastructure remains a stormwater quality management plans If additional funding is not sourced, and potential safety of when it comes to the serious issue. to improve asset management and Local Government and other statutory foreshore areas. Local Government has identified the implement current best practice for health of the Swan stakeholders will continue to work in need for a strategic, integrated approach integrated water management, isolation in efforts to improve water quality Canning catchment. to fund-sourcing and delivery in the throughout the catchment. Stakeholders 3. Water Corporation develops catchment. This Plan has prioritised the Despite commendable will compete for funding which will build stormwater quality management need for a sustainable funding mechanism distrust and poor working relationships. plans and reports on water quality investment from to aid this process and proposes the within main drains and capital works The community will be dissatisfied at the development of a ‘healthy catchments programs as well as implements a number of land level of commitment from all levels of rate’ as the most viable option. current best practice for integrated Government to invest in the future of the managers and agencies, The proposed model will require the water management, Swan and Canning rivers and catchment. commitment and support of a number of the water quality of the An appropriate level of understanding in 4. The State Government increases agencies but if implemented will lead to the community about potential impacts funding for the Swan River Trust in system continues to collaboration and stronger relationships on water quality will not be achieved future State budgets, and between key stakeholders. decline and the state and poor water management practices 5. A partnership agreement is signed by will continue. The use of the rivers may Local Government has taken leadership all statutory stakeholders to commit of foreshores, river change if water quality continues to on this issue through the formation of the to water quality improvement and to walls and drainage decline and poor management of assets Swan Canning Policy Forum and ultimately clarify roles and responsibilities, reduces the amenity and potential safety through the development of this Priority infrastructure remains of foreshore areas. Plan. Local Government cannot be the 6. Water quality targets/guidelines are primary driver for this initiative – what is established for new development and a serious issue. required is cohesive support from the enforced through the planning system State Government to further develop or Department of Water, this model or other options for increased 7. A compulsory nutrient offset scheme investment in the river system. be considered and applied to future urban land development within the Metropolitan Regional Scheme, 8. The State water reform agenda to include water quality management provisions for drainage service providers as well as mechanisms to reduce transfer of nutrients and contaminants to water bodies, and 9. Expand the Infill Sewerage Program to include industrial areas and currently unsewered urban areas. Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 23

6.0 Appendix

6.1 Identifying Options Stakeholder Investment 6.2 Analysis of Impacts on Stakeholders It is envisaged that stakeholders will There are a number of opportunities to contribute up to 50% of the total costs for develop a sustainable funding mechanism this project, including Local Government. How could this stakeholder ... for water quality improvement. A How will we engage combination of methods could be used Boat Levy Stakeholder Impact the proposal? Be impacted by the proposal? this stakeholder? to help achieve the stated objectives. An additional levy for boat owners which Three approaches can be adopted for is used to improve water quality. Collected dealing with contaminated waterways. by the Department of Fisheries and Local Government Support and participation Access to funding – asset Swan Canning Policy Forum The ‘polluter pays’ approach considers administered by the Department of Water. Communication networks management, water quality that those who contribute most to the improvement works Speeding fines for boats Partnership Agreement problem should pay for any remediation. Policy/practice changes The ‘beneficiary pays’ approach considers Revenue raised through enforcement that all those who benefit from the asset could be put towards water quality and Department of Water Support and participation Improved data on drainage Swan Canning Policy Forum should contribute to its protection and foreshore rehabilitation works. Information sharing networks and waterways remediation. A ‘user pays’ approach Business as usual Target setting for WQ Achieve Department ‘purpose’ and Partnership Agreement considers that those using the waterways goals should contribute more to its protection. Low levels of investment are leading to Some proposed revenue streams using all continuing water quality problems as well Swan River Trust Support and participation Access to additional funding – Swan Canning Policy Forum three approaches are summarised below. as ageing and deteriorating shoreline and asset management, water quality drainage infrastructure. Policy development Healthy catchments rate improvement works Within each option are sub-options Partnership Agreement A term for ‘drainage rate’ yet can be for implementation. Many of these Water Corporation Support and participation Policy and practice shift Swan Canning Policy Forum used for an array of activities which will are outside the jurisdiction of Local achieve water quality improvement. Government and have therefore been Information sharing Potential increased investment in The drainage rate can be calculated, included as suggestions only. All options Communications network drainage Partnership Agreement collected and administered in a number would require further investigation. This Revenue collection of ways. Collected by the Water proposal supports a combination of Corporation and then administered by solutions to address our serious water a central body who distributes to Local Department of Environment Support and participation Improved data on drainage Swan Canning Policy Forum management issues. The implementation and Conservation networks and waterways Government, Water Corporation, Swan of the healthy catchments rate, with Information sharing River Trust, catchment and community developer contributions and up to 50% Communications network Achieve Department ‘purpose’ and Partnership Agreement groups is the preferred model. stakeholder investment, will ensure a goals Developer contributions robust, sustainable model for urban water To be calculated using the average cost of management. Development Industry Support and participation Compliance and costs Swan Canning Policy Forum - UDIA remediation for nutrient concentrations. Demonstration sites Nutrient offsets

Main Roads Support and participation Compliance and costs Swan Canning Policy Forum Communication networks Demonstration sites

Department of Planning Regulation through Legislative change Swan Canning Policy Forum Planning Provisions Enforcement

Catchment/Community Support and participation Access to funding – water quality Swan Canning Policy Forum There are a number Groups and community education projects of opportunities to Communication networks Communication Strategy develop a sustainable funding mechanism Indigenous Community Support and advocacy Access to funding Communication Strategy Increased awareness and for water quality protection of heritage sites

improvement. Wider Community Support and participation Costs and benefits Communication Strategy Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 25

6.0 Appendix

6.3 Existing drainage New South Wales Victoria Queensland Europe United States In 2006 the New South Wales Like the Waterways Package and Urban Brisbane City Council charge an In the United Kingdom, drainage Boards Most local authorities in the United States rate models Government made amendments to Stormwater Program in NSW, the Environmental Management and have been established which are charge a water quality fee based on Throughout the modern world, its Local Government Act 1993 and Victorian Stormwater Action Program Compliance Levy which raises funds for responsible for maintaining and improving the amount of impervious surface area governments and water boards Local Government (General) Regulation (VSAP) kick-started Local Government the protection of waterways from toxins, land drainage to prevent flooding under on each property. Lexington, Kentucky raise fees and charges to implement 2005 to allow Local Government into addressing water quality through trash, sediment and effluent discharge and the Land Drainage Act 1991. To carry out introduced a water quality management stormwater management and water to raise a stormwater management stormwater management. VSAP ran landfill gas control, specifically remediation this work, they set drainage rates based fee in 2010 to improve storm and sewer quality improvement works. While service charge, recognising the key role from 2000 - 2006 and marshalled $50 of former and existing landfills. The amount on the yearly rental value of agricultural infrastructure management. The fee the mechanisms and institutional of Local Government in stormwater million for projects which assisted Local is calculated using the average rateable land and buildings in their area. Lindsey also provides funding for projects to arrangements vary considerably, the management and the need for a Government to develop Stormwater value multiplied by the rate in the dollar Marsh Drainage Board charge a drainage improve water quality in creeks and common theme is the levying of funds sustainable funding mechanism. This Management Plans and funding as determined by the differential general rate at 13.50 pence in the pound.38 streams. The fee is charged through the 40 from the public, on the premise that supported the Waterways Package and for implementation. The strategic rating category into which the property Regional water authorities (Watershappen) Kentucky American Water Company. 36 waterway health is a shared responsibility. Urban Stormwater Program initiative of framework also gave other agencies and would fall into for General Rates. have been established in the Netherlands The City of Chattanooga recently tripled its the 1990s in which $82 million worth of organisations access to funding. Western Australia Tasmania to undertake water management. Their water quality fee which covers the costs of funding was provided for local programs Melbourne Water developed its own work includes managing water barriers; managing the City Water Quality Program, In Perth, a drainage levy is collected by Hobart City Council charges a Stormwater over a five year period, administered by funding mechanism to ensure the protection against flooding through responsible for reducing stormwater the Water Corporation for water quantity Service Rate which is based on property the Stormwater Trust. This program was continuation of water quality improvement. dunes and dikes; water management for runoff pollutants. The City is required to protection works and does not contribute values. The Council has a number of highly successful in motivating Local Melbourne Water is responsible for quality and quantity; combating water implement a stormwater management to water quality improvement. This is projects which have been completed Government to improve stormwater providing waterway management, regional pollution by purifying sewage water program under legislation enforced by the a missed opportunity, contributing to or are underway that have been jointly quality and demonstrated significant drainage and floodplain services to and improving surface water quality Tennessee Department of Environment the decline in waterway health in the funded by the Council and the Federal environmental gains. It also identified the about 1.7 million property owners within and the management of waterways and Conservation. The underlying premise Swan Canning river system and leaving Government’s Natural Heritage Trust and need to establish a sustainable funding the Port Phillip and Westernport region. and roads. These activities are funded of the charge is that the operation, a major funding gap for water quality National Water Initiative.37 source to provide for improved stormwater It currently has an annual waterways by Regional Water Authority charges maintenance, and improvement of the improvement initiatives. 29 management. charge of between $85.00 and $56.00 and a water pollution levy. Regional city’s stormwater system are borne by Local Government funds local drainage Sydney Water manages 25% of ‘trunk per property. This money funds: grants Water Authority charges cover the the users of the system in relation to works through the collection of rates drains’ in the Sydney metropolitan area for the community to improve their rivers costs of the flood protection and water their contributions of water quality to the and sometimes through developer to protect people and property from and creeks; river health improvements and In Perth, a drainage management, whereas the costs of system.41 Montgomery County, City of contributions or ‘special area’ rates flooding, improve waterway health and investigations; stormwater management levy is collected by wastewater treatment are financed by Titusville and the City of Greensboro also where considerable works are required. appeal and to provide for growth. It raises and WSUD; urban development a water pollution levy. The pollution levy have a water quality protection charge In 2004, the City of Swan Council a stormwater service charge of between planning and approvals to ensure the Water Corporation is based on the principle that a polluter based on the amount of impervious endorsed a special area drainage rate $40.00 and $100.00 per household per sustainable growth; flood protection and; for water quantity must pay for the pollution they cause. surface of a property. in the Midland District Drainage Area 30 year. Byron Shire Council’s stormwater flood warning systems and drainage Every household in the Netherlands Perth at the same rate levied by the Water management charge is levied at a flat maintenance and improvements.33 protection works and pays pollution tax. Companies and Corporation. Most Local Governments, Perth is very similar to other urban cities charge of $25.00 for residential and South Australia does not contribute organisations pay at a rate determined however, fund drainage works through business and $12.50 for strata titles.31 by the quantity and composition of their which feature a major, iconic waterway normal budgetary expenditure which is Marrickville Council also charge this SA Water collects a Save the River Murray to water quality wastewater. The revenues from these system. Yet what separates Perth is a subject to a consideration of competing rate which helps to raise and average levy on behalf of the Department for Water, taxes provided a budget of € 1.9 billion sustainable funding mechanism for water priorities, including the expenditure needs of $700,000 per annum for stormwater Land and Biodiversity Conservation. improvement. This is in 2004.39 quality improvement and as such is lagging of other services and the income available management activities.32 The levy ranges from $120 per year for a missed opportunity, behind other Australian capital cities for drainage service provision in a given non-residential customers to $35.20 for and indeed the rest of the first world in year.27 The collection of a drainage rate residential.34 The levy raises an estimated contributing to the adopting sound environmental/economic by individual Local Governments is not $18.5 million, indexed per annum that is decline in waterway practices. Western Australia is neglecting supported because it greatly restricts directed towards restoring the health of an invaluable and recognised natural asset investment and precludes a strategic the Murray River.35 health in the Swan by not addressing water quality through an approach to urban water management adequate and sustainable funding source. investment. A further complication is that Canning river system Section 6.37 of the Local Government Act and leaving a major 1993 states that special area rates must be raised on rateable land within a specific funding gap for water area where ratepayers will benefit, have quality improvement access to or contribute to the need for that work service or facility.28 initiatives. Following are some examples of how water utilities and governments collect funds for stormwater management in Australia and around the world.

27 ACIL Tasman (2009) Advice on Water Corporation’s Drainage Charges, Prepared for the Economic Regulation Authority, Perth, WA: ACIL Tasman 36 www.brisbane.qld.gov.au 37 http://www.hobartcity.com.au/content/InternetWebsite/Environment/Stormwater_and_Waterways/Conservation__Stormwater_Quality.aspx 28 Local Government Act 1995 (WA) 29 http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/stormwater/usp/index.htm 30 http://www.sydneywater.com.au 31 http://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/rates/info 38 http://www.lmdb.co.uk/drainagerate.html 39 http://www.uvw.nl/engels/index.html 40 http://www.lexingtonky.gov/index.aspx?page=1963 41 http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_160446.asp 32 http://www.marrickville.nsw.gov.au/environment/stormwatercharge.htm 33 http://www.melbournewater.com.au 34 http://www.sawater.com.au 35 http://www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au/murray/save/index Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 27

6.0 Appendix

6.4 Marketing and Communications 6.5 Partnership The State Government recognised this ii. Why have a Partnership Agreement? serious issue when it approved the The purpose of the Agreement is to set A Swan Canning Communications Taskforce was created to develop a Communication Strategy to reconnect the Perth community Agreement: Protecting Environmental Protection Policy (Swan and out the accountabilities of each of the with the river system. This Strategy consists of a ‘Discover your Rivers’ awareness campaign, utilising local publications to Canning Rivers) in 1998. The Government parties who have a responsibility for communicate the key messages of the Policy Forum. Highlighting the importance of the river system and educating the community our Swan Canning of the day affirmed: stormwater management and engender about current and future threats will help build a consensus about how best to improve its health. Communication will also be increased System “its commitment to restore, enhance, their commitment to improving the within and among Local Government to maintain support from senior officers and Elected Members. Protecting our Swan Canning System preserve and protect water quality and management of urban stormwater quality. the environmental value of the Swan Perth’s traditional urban stormwater Communication Strategy A Partnership Agreement between and Canning Rivers and to prevent systems are no different to those of most the Swan River Trust, the Department further pollution and degradation of the cities in the world. They have largely of Water, the Water Corporation Swan and Canning River ecosystem evolved from natural drainage patterns and WALGA Vision Mission and acknowledges that this cannot that have been progressively modified to for urban stormwater management in be achieved independently of the reduce the risk of flooding and to drain A healthy Swan Canning River system which is Local Government will work together and demonstrate the Swan Canning catchment. catchment with which the rivers manages for its ecological, social and economic values leadership to improve the health of the Swan and Canning land for development. With hindsight, the interact” (Environmental Protection environmental consequences of urban in a sustainable way for the health and wellbeing of River system. The Swan Canning Policy Forum, with support Policy (Swan and Canning Rivers) current and future generations. A river system which from the sector and WALGA will advocate and lobby for FOReword drainage system development can be Approval order 1998) is accessible, valued by locals and visitors and where more investment and resourcing to improve the social, i. Background recognised, however, our existing drainage Strategic Outcomes responsibility for its health is shared by all. environmental and economic values of the system and work The protection of the environmental system represents a major component of Water quality in the Swan Canning river collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve this. quality and the beneficial uses of our urban infrastructure. Other infrastructure system is declining due to a number water environments, such as those has grown around it and this poses of pressures in the catchment. Land- associated with the Swan, Canning and significant restrictions on what can be use, population increase, urbanisation Helena Rivers, will depend upon improved achieved to implement contemporary n To enhance community understanding of the river system and catchment impacts through consistent and effective communication and uncertainty around the roles management of urban stormwater. We urban drainage techniques in existing n To raise the profile of the Swan and Canning rivers in the media and wider community and responsibilities for water quality must reduce the levels of contaminants urban areas. The improved understanding n To encourage community ownership of and ongoing interest in the river system management are all contributing factors carried to our creeks, rivers and estuaries. of the environmental implications of urban n To gain community and government commitment to the future of the river system impacting the health of the Swan Canning Indeed, with Perth’s population predicted drainage systems can be more readily Strategic n To lobby the State and Federal Government for more funding and resource commitment to ensure the system is managed sustainably

Outcomes river system. Nutrient loads and pollution to grow by more than half a million applied to new urban developments which are reaching the system through people by 2031, a general and continued to avoid similar impacts in the future. drainage networks, creeks, groundwater deterioration in water quality and aquatic Additionally, opportunities to retrofit new and overland flows are now a serious n health can be expected unless there treatment technologies into existing urban The rivers belong to us all concern and have culminated in frequent are significant efforts made to improve drainage infrastructure can also help n The responsibility for the river system is shared by all algal blooms as well as fish kills and are the management of diffuse sources of to address the environmental impacts likely to have contributed to the death of n The river system is the reason we are all here pollutants. associated with urban stormwater runoff in six dolphins in 2009. n The river is iconic and holds environmental, social and economic significance for The Swan River Trust, in consultation receiving environments. n The Swan Canning Water Quality Western Australia with the Department of Water, the Water This Partnership Agreement puts in Improvement Plan revealed that n Corporation and Western Australian place arrangements for opportunistic Key Messages The health of the river system is under threat double the acceptable amount of Local Government Association (WALGA) and strategic improvements to the nutrients is currently entering the river and Local Government, has explored environmental performance of existing system. These are predominantly various approaches that could be urban stormwater systems and for from rural sources but urban areas adopted to improve the quality of urban changing the approach to urban are increasingly contributing to the stormwater. The establishment of a stormwater management in new urban Local Community Media Government problem. Government cooperative approach was considered developments. n In recent years, the Department of n Zone meeting updates n Community Newspaper n ‘Discover Your Rivers’ n Letters essential, and therefore a Partnership Individually, SRT, DoW, the Water Water has undertaken a number of n Internal Correspondence n Council Newsletter campaign n Meetings Agreement between the Swan River Corporation and Local Government studies to investigate nutrient and n WALGA publications n Events n Media releases n Lobbying Trust, the Department of Water, the Water have specific roles, responsibilities - LG News n Library displays n The West column n Engagement non-nutrient contaminant levels in Corporation and Western Australian Local and powers with respect to particular - Western Councillor n Community Groups n Community Newspaper of agencies the metropolitan rivers, drains and Government Association (WALGA) and Channels aspects of stormwater management. This - Eco-News n Internet Group beaches. All of these studies revealed Local Government, has been prepared. Agreement aims to bring these together n Staff events n On hold messages n Radio levels of nutrients and pollutants above The Agreement covers environmental n SONG meetings in a coordinated manner to achieve an recommended levels in at least one outcomes for improved urban stormwater n LG events outcome that in many ways is greater than study site. management and the means to achieve the sum of the parts. these, which includes an ongoing ‘partnership’ approach. Figure 3: Communication Strategy for the Swan Canning Policy Forum Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 29

6.0 Appendix

The strength of the partnership, reflected The key to the Agreement is the Memorandum of Understanding Basis for the Agreement The Agreement establishes a partnership Statement of roles and by the Agreement, lies in recognising commitment to action by the participants. between stakeholders in stormwater on the environmental Historically, Perth’s urban stormwater responsibilities and applying the complementary roles These are broadly: management to implement the most cost- systems have been developed to protect The participants agree that their roles and and powers of the partners in managing performance of Perth’s urban effective strategies for achieving improved n Working with common, contemporary properties from flooding, to develop responsibilities in the management of urban urban stormwater as a system rather than stormwater systems environmental outcomes. Arrangements and agreed principles of urban land, and to safely convey stormwater stormwater systems are broadly as follows: as disjointed segments, and working in developed through this Agreement will stormwater management. runoff downstream. In recent years the partnership towards common goals. “Partnership Agreement” ensure that investment in stormwater SRT is responsible for the protection of the community has expressed strong desires n Establishment of performance management will be targeted where the quality of the Swan and Canning Rivers by One of the key strengths of this Agreement Definitions and interpretation for the protection of the environmental objectives to guide planning and best outcomes can be achieved rather application of the statutory powers of the is that it establishes a common and quality of urban waterways, estuaries and design of urban stormwater systems. The short title for this memorandum of than being constrained by jurisdictional Swan and Canning Rivers Management holistic approach to urban stormwater beaches leading to an additional emphasis understanding is “Partnership Agreement” Act 2006. management across the metropolitan n Strategic application of the best boundaries. or “Stormwater Agreement.” on improving stormwater quality. To catchments. This creates some logistical practice tools, in the context of achieve this, urban stormwater must be Objectives of this Agreement Swan River Trust challenges for individual municipalities and agreed principles and performance ‘Best practice’ means the most cost- managed such that environmental impacts Through this Agreement the participants n establishes environmental objectives for areas where there is no regional/arterial objectives, through urban stormwater effective means for achieving required on receiving waters are minimised. For wish to establish co-operative for the Swan Canning systems drainage authority. These challenges management planning. environmental outcomes. example, improving the environmental arrangements for improving the through the Swan and Canning Rivers have been addressed by structuring performance of urban stormwater systems n Monitoring of best practice ‘SRT’ means the Swan River Trust environmental performance of urban Management Act 2006 and associated the Agreement as a “global” statement environmental management practices is a recommendation of the Swan Canning ‘WALGA’ means the Western Australian stormwater systems that will: policies, where the WALGA provides generic for urban stormwater management. Water Quality Improvement Plan, and has Local Government Association, an representation of municipalities within also been identified in the River Protection i. determine environmental performance n develops environmental performance n Review and refinement of financial and incorporated local government association these catchments. Individual municipalities Strategy. This Agreement provides a goals for urban stormwater systems objectives for stormwater administrative arrangements to deliver can sign up to become participants to the ‘Water Corporation’ means the water robust framework for coordinating urban and the means for achievement of management, the required outcomes in the most Agreement at any time, bringing them into corporation of Western Australia stormwater management to achieve Swan these goals n acts as a key agent in the coordination cost-effective manner. partnership with the SRT, the DoW and/or ‘DoW’ means the Department of Water Canning Water Quality Improvement Plan ii. clarify the roles and responsibilities of of initiatives to improve urban the Water Corporation. n Resolving disputes or other problems objectives. participants in the management and stormwater management to achieve before they become impediments to ‘Stormwater system’ means drains and The Swan River Trust, the Department operation of urban stormwater systems the objectives of the Swan Canning improved environmental outcomes. other works for the collection, storage, Water Quality Improvement Plan, treatment and transport of rainfall-derived of Water, the Water Corporation and iii. ensure commitment of participants This Agreement is seen as a part of a runoff. Local Government are key stakeholders to actions to fulfil their roles and n ensures that environmental quality dynamic process that will continue to who, between them, have the statutory responsibilities is monitored and assessed to evolve with improved understanding and Purpose powers to deliver improved environmental identify responses to changes in the iv. establish a process for resolving circumstances. The Agreement represents outcomes for the management of Perth’s management of the catchment and This Agreement establishes the residual issues of role or responsibility. a key stage in this process. Beyond this, principles of partnership between the urban stormwater system, and therefore stormwater system. it will be important for the signatories to contribute to the high-value receiving Water Corporation (within its drainage Goals The Department of Water monitor the application of the Agreement environments they discharge into. jurisdiction), the Swan River Trust, the The goals of urban stormwater to ensure that it continues to meet the Responsibility for operational management n facilitates the implementation of Department of Water, the Western management agreed by the participants needs of the participants and achieve of Perth’s systems is divided between the a consistent strategic direction Australian Local Government Association are to: improved environmental outcomes. and individual municipalities, for: Water Corporation and Local Government. for stormwater management at a While this Agreement applies available i. improve the quality of stormwater from statewide level, n establishing environmental powers and resources of existing statutory urban areas in accordance with agreed n facilitates the achievement of goals This Agreement is performance objectives for urban bodies to improving the environmental performance goals stormwater systems; and using regulatory and non-regulatory seen as a part of a performance of urban stormwater, it also ii. manage stormwater quality on a (eg best practice, public education and dynamic process n achieving inter-agency and inter- recognises that there may be a need for catchment level through co-operative awareness campaigns) means and governmental cooperation in urban both specific legislative and regulatory programs across municipal boundaries enforcement where necessary, that will continue to stormwater management within the instruments and complementary measures metropolitan urban catchment areas. to overcome current shortcomings. In iii. promote source-control measures to n facilitates the development of tools, evolve with improved such cases, this Agreement provides the minimise the generation and transport such as best practice environmental understanding and foundations for further review of statutory of stormwater pollutants at, or near to, management guidelines, to assist in or regulatory arrangements. the sources the achievement of environmental objectives through the control of circumstances. iv. improve, protect and maintain in a sources of pollution, healthy condition, a diverse range of water environments in the urban n develops strategies for stormwater landscape management in conjunction with local government in developing areas, v. involve local residents and business communities in programs to improve n identifies best practice and sets stormwater management and water standards and targets for stormwater quality. management at a state-wide level, Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 31

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n participates in, and supports n incorporates best practice guidelines in Stormwater Manual n Participants agree to engage the n Participants agree to monitor and Monitoring reporting and review the development of, stormwater local planning policies, n DoW, Water Corporation and local community in the development review legislation and statutory of this Agreement management plans by local and implementation of stormwater provisions, as required, ensuring n undertakes community awareness and government will continue to document Participants to this Agreement will government, management plans to: arrangements are appropriate for participation activities to encourage best practices for stormwater quality monitor their activities with regard to this achieving the goals of this Agreement. n provides overall direction and strategy adoption of best practice by individuals management and provide guidance • develop broad understanding of Agreement. Performance measures of for stormwater management in and businesses. for the adoption of these practices by issues; Dispute resolution this Agreement may include, but are not Western Australia, municipalities and other stakeholders Participation to this Agreement • gain support for investment in n In the event that a dispute arises limited to: to ensure continuous improvement. n monitors and reports on the state of by individual municipalities measures to improve environmental between the participants as to the i. Environmental quality of urban water environments, n SRT and DoW will recognise adoption performance; and responsibility for particular actions stormwater water and receiving waters. Individual municipalities may become of best practice through appropriate that may affect the environmental n supports research to identify best • encourage individuals to adopt ii. Implementation of commitments participants to this Agreement by environmental management systems performance of a stormwater system, practice, develop new technology, completing the declaration set out in best practice in actions that affect contained within this Agreement. evaluate performance and assist as a benchmark of acceptable stormwater quality. DoW will convene a panel comprising Schedule 1. Participating municipalities are environmental performance. a nominated representative of SRT, iii. Implementation of activities established management decision making, listed in Schedule 2 of this Agreement. Financial and administrative n Water Corporation, DoW and WALGA, as a consequence of this Agreement. n will assist municipalities to establish Water Corporation and participating arrangements Participants to this Agreement are to review submissions from the Participants will report the outcomes of best practice stormwater management, municipalities will incorporate best expected to commence implementation practice, as defined by the Stormwater n Participants agree to explore financial aggrieved participants and recommend this monitoring through their organisation’s n provides floodplain management, flood of this Agreement, as far as their Manual, into drainage strategies, strategies for ensuring cost-effective an outcome consistent with the goals annual reports. protection and flood warning services responsibilities go. If a participant approaches to improving stormwater and objectives of this Agreement. operational practices and procedures This Agreement will be reviewed within to the people of Perth. considers its ability to fulfil its obligations and statutory instruments (eg quality. n In the event of the panel being unable under this Agreement is jeopardised by the three years following the commencement Water Corporation municipal strategic statements, local n State Government, through the to resolve the dispute, the panel may inaction of another participant, it may seek of the Agreement. A consolidated report laws, planning and building permit DoW and the SRT will provide recommend that the participation in the n responsible for the management of the a determination to address this situation of performance will be published as part of conditions, etc). financial incentives for participating Agreement of either or both parties be regional/arterial drainage network (main by the process outlined in Dispute this review. municipalities to assist in the suspended in whole or part. drains as defined in section 100 of the Resolution below. Stormwater Management Planning development of stormwater Metropolitan Water Authority Act 1982) n Savings Actions agreed by the participants Participating municipalities will management plans. within its drainage jurisdiction, complete a Stormwater Management n Nothing in this Agreement shall Principles n n designs, constructs and maintains Plan, in consultation with Water DoW, Water Corporation and the SRT derogate from SRT’s responsibilities regional/arterial stormwater systems, n All participants agree to cooperate Corporation, SRT and DoW, for and participating municipalities will under the Swan and Canning Rivers and work in partnership with other their urban stormwater catchments. seek the most cost-effective means of Management Act 2006. n has a shared responsibility with participants in the implementation of Stormwater management plans may achieving environmental performance Local Government for stormwater n Nothing in this Agreement shall this Agreement. review existing drainage systems and goals for urban stormwater management. derogate from Local Government’s their management to identify and management. These will be established n All participants agree to manage responsibilities under the Local Local Government prioritise: through Stormwater Management stormwater on a catchment basis Plans and may include: Government Act 1995. n has a shared responsibility with by engaging relevant stakeholders • sources of pollution; n Nothing in this Agreement shall Water Corporation (within its drainage • transfer by contract of operational (eg adjoining municipalities where • opportunities to prevent pollution derogate from Water Corporation’s jurisdiction), and sole responsibility responsibility of some drainage stormwater systems transcend from these sources; obligations under the Metropolitan outside this jurisdiction, for stormwater assets between Water Corporation municipal boundaries). Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage management within municipalities, • opportunities for inclusion of and participating municipalities, Performance Objectives stormwater treatment measures in and; Act 1909 or the Metropolitan Water n participates in urban stormwater Authority Act 1982. n DoW will, in partnership with other existing drainage systems; and policy development and practice with • strategic positioning of stormwater participants in this Agreement, Department of Water and the Swan • strategic planning of future urban treatment measures within drainage establish environmental performance River Trust, development and drainage systems, with costs apportioned objectives for urban stormwater requirements to minimise adverse by criteria other than location within n leads the development and management and aquatic environmental impacts; the drainage system (ie location in implementation of local stormwater environments (receiving waters) to regard to drain asset ownership management plans within the regional guide the planning and design of does not confer responsibility for context established in co-operation stormwater systems. stormwater treatment measures). with the Department of Water and the n As a key agent for urban stormwater Swan River Trust n Participants agree to investigate and management, SRT will, in partnership pursue funding assistance options that n undertakes local urban drainage with other participants to this may be available from time to time to works in accordance with agreed best Agreement, facilitate development of assist in improving stormwater quality. practice standards and guidelines performance objectives including the developed by Department of Water, achievement of the Swan Canning Swan River Trust, Water Corporation Water Quality Improvement Plan goals. and Local Government, Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 33

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SIGNED on behalf of the SWAN RIVER TRUST by SCHEDULE 1 AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN STORMWATER AGREEMENT

Jim Freemantle Chairman Swan River Trust The municipality of agrees to participate in the Memorandum of Understanding on Improving the Environmental Performance Perth’s Urban Stormwater Systems between the Swan River Trust, the Department of Water, the Water Corporation and the Western Australian Local on / / (date) Government Association.

SIGNED on behalf of (municipality) by

SIGNED on behalf of the DEPARTMENT OF WATER by

(name)

Maree De Lacey Director General (position) on / / (date) / / (date)

SIGNED on behalf of the WATER CORPORATION by SCHEDULE 2 PARTICIPATING MUNICIPALITIES TO THE STORMWATER AGREEMENT Sue Murphy Chief Executive Officer, Water Corporation The following municipalities are participants of the Memorandum of Understanding on Improving the Environmental Performance of Perth’s Urban Stormwater Systems between the Swan River Trust, the Department of Water, the Water Corporation and the Western on / / (date) Australian Local Government Association, effective from the specified date.

MUNICIPALITY COMMENCEMENT DATE

SIGNED on behalf of the WESTERN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION by

Mayor Troy Pickard President, Western Australian Local Government Association on / / (date) Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 35

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6.6 Local Government Charter for the Swan and Canning river system 6.7 Model Nutrient Offset 6. Nutrient offset opportunities These guidelines were developed by (sites) are identified through Urban the Environmental Protection Authority Scheme for the MRS Stormwater Management Plans and (EPA), Department of Natural Resources District Water Management Strategies and Environment, Melbourne Water, A nutrient offset scheme is seen as an Municipal Association of Victoria and important market-based instrument to 7. Offsets are provided as a last resort Local Government and were the product ensure that future urban development and contributions consider whole-of- of considerable research and technical does not adversely impact upon receiving life needs of offset sites. review of a range of urban stormwater environments. A proposed model detailed 1. To be effective, this scheme must management issues and measures.43 below is based on the scheme developed be compulsory. in Victoria. Many of the principles within Similar objectives would need to be the Swan River Trust’s (SRT) draft Nutrient That way all new development and developed in Perth, specific to the local Offset Policy are supported in this model. redevelopment is managed to ensure soil, climate and hydrological conditions. it does not contribute to water quality The objective of this proposed Nutrient decline in the catchment. A compulsory 3. The Victorian objectives for Offset Scheme expands on the SRT’s scheme will elevate urban development environmental management of draft voluntary policy, which is to “enable in Perth to become more innovative stormwater are enforced under development and land-use changes to and to deliver better environmental and state legislation. occur in the Swan Canning Catchment community outcomes. They were developed to determine without causing deterioration in the the level of stormwater management ecological health and community benefit 2. As a first step, water quality targets will need to be established. necessary to meet the State Environmental of the Swan Canning Riverpark due to Protection Policy (SEPP) – Waters of 42 nutrient inputs.” These will be based on rigorous, locally- Victoria objectives. SEPP Waters of The objective of this model Nutrient Offset based scientific research. In Victoria, Victoria is a statutory policy under section Scheme is: these are detailed in Urban Stormwater: 16 of the Environment Protection Act Best Practice Environmental Management (1970), which identifies the beneficial uses n to ensure that development and Guidelines. of Victoria’s waterways. These objectives land-use changes in the Metropolitan are therefore enforced through the Regional Scheme area do not The objectives for environmental Victorian Planning System. contribute to the deterioration of the management of stormwater in Victoria are: ecological, social and economic values “The SEPP sets out a series of Suspended 80% retention of the of receiving environments, and; environmental quality objectives solids (SS) typical urban annual load and indicators to measure whether n to encourage the integration of water Total beneficial uses are being protected. sensitive urban design into urban 45% retention of the phosphorus It is recognised that some objectives landscapes for improved water typical urban annual load (TP) will take longer to meet than others. management, ecological, amenity and In these cases, the SEPP provides community benefit outcomes. Total 45% retention of the nitrogen a framework to develop targets The key components of this model Swan typical urban annual load (TN) that will help to drive environmental Canning Nutrient Offsets Scheme would improvement so that we can ultimately be that: 70% retention of typical Litter meet the objective. It is important that urban annual load 1. The scheme is compulsory the SEPP includes both objectives WAL 22226 Charter A3.indd 1 16/11/10 11:19 AM Maintain discharges for (i.e. the goal posts) and targets (i.e. 2. Water quality targets are Flows the 1.5 year ARI at pre- interim milestones) to both provide the established, based on rigorous science development levels ultimate objective and to encourage specific to the Swan Canning and drive continuous improvement, 3. The scheme is enforced under state towards that objective.”44 legislation through State Planning Policy 2.9 Water Resources (2006) or other legislative mechanisms 4. Financial offsets are provided where targets cannot be met on site 5. The Department of Water administer and oversee the scheme

42 Swan River Trust 2010, Draft Policy SRT/D20 Nutrient Offset Policy for the Swan Canning Catchment, Swan River Trust, Perth. Retrieved 22/03/11 from http://www.swanrivertrust.wa.gov.au/planning/ policies/Documents/srt_d20_nutrient_offset.pdf 43 http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/water/stormwater/stormwater_BEPMG.asp 44 EPA Victoria, 2003. State Environment Protetcion Policy. Retrieved 21/03/11 from http://epanote2.epa.vic.gov.au/EPA/Publications.nsf/2f1c2625731746aa4a256ce90001cbb5/f788251d888479b7ca256d9400213c26/$FILE/905.pdf 45 Melbourne Water, Stormwater Quality Offsets – A Guide for Developers. Retrieved 21/03/11, from http://www.melbournewater.com.au/content/library/wsud/stormwater_quality_offset_scheme.pdf Priority Plan for Investment in the Swan Canning Catchment 37

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4. Where these targets cannot be met A standard contribution rate is calculated 5. This model proposes that the 7. Nutrient offsets would be available onsite, financial offsets are paid to the based on rainfall and is expressed in $/ha. Department of Water administers the as a last resort option only to ensure catchment manager so the targets Each area within the catchments has its scheme. that nutrients are managed on- can be achieved elsewhere in the own standard contribution rate. A simple In the absence of a single water service site where possible and that urban catchment. example taken from the Stormwater provider who has responsibility for landscapes adequately integrate water In the Port Phillip and Western Port Quality Offsets – a Guide for Developers is waterway and catchment management in management and water sensitive catchments, Melbourne Water manages a detailed below: Perth, the Department of Water is best urban design principles. Stormwater Quality Offsets Program where Standard contribution rate (ie for lots from placed to administer the scheme and A sliding scale of where offsets could be financial contributions are provided for 450m2 but less than 1000m2) = $3000/ha essentially be the ‘banker’ for financial located is provided below: regional water quality works. contributions. The Department would Development density factor = standard work in closely with land managers “Offsets provide flexibility for residential = 1.0 Option Scale Responsibility Considerations developers where best practice and water service providers to develop performance objectives cannot be Development size = 1 ha nutrient offset sites. 1 Development/ Developer Targets must be met on-site where possible achieved on-site, or where water Percentage of nitrogen reduction achieved Funds received through the scheme would Subdivision quality works are planned as part onsite = 36% (80% of target) be quarantined for the purposes of nutrient of a drainage scheme.”45 offsets only which would then be given 2 District DoW/ land managers To be considered as a first option when targets cannot Offset contribution = $3000/ha x 1ha to land managers or drainage service be met in development – financial contribution triggered Stormwater quality offsets are calculated (development size) x 1.0 (development providers to undertake remediation works. on a sliding scale according to the density factor) x 20% (shortfall in best 3 Regional DoW/ land managers To be considered when targets are not met percentage of best practice that is practice) 6. An important component of the at development or district scale – financial achieved on the site. Nitrogen is the scheme would be the identification of contribution triggered Amount payable = $600 currency for the contribution as it is suitable nutrient offset opportunities typically the limiting pollutant in the Port In the Swan Canning it would be more within the catchment. Calculations of financial offset Phillip and Westernport catchments. appropriate to use phosphorous as These should be identified at a local scale contributions and site selection would The offsets are based on the costs of the currency when calculating financial through Local Government and Water need to consider whole-of-life needs remediating nutrients (nitrogen) through contributions. Corporation Stormwater Management for the site from construction to ongoing the establishment of nutrient stripping Plans and District Water Management This model supports a financial maintenance requirements. Offsets wetlands. Calculations depend on a Strategies. An action required at the contribution from developers where targets should be located in areas which have number of factors including density, total district planning stage is to ‘Define cannot be met, rather than requiring the a security of land-use, tenure and a size of development and lot size. catchment objectives and design developer to partner with land managers commitment to maintenance. The objectives for water quality, quantity to create offset sites. This way, a central Department of Water would oversee the and conservation for local planning and agency can make determinations about program and enter into partnership with subdivision.”46 This could, by definition, where those contributions should be land managers to create and maintain include identification of potential nutrient invested for the best water quality and sites in perpetuity. value for money outcome. offset sites. The development of a nutrient offset scheme for the Swan Canning would require collaboration among a number of key stakeholders. The need for rigorous research around water quality guidelines and targets has been identified as an essential first step in this process. This model has been used as an example to demonstrate how a nutrient offset scheme could be developed for the Swan Canning, and the essential components that would make it effective in improving water quality and ecological health of high-value receiving environments.

46 Western Australian Planning Commission 2008, Better Urban Water Management, Western Australia Planning Commission, Perth. Local Government has identified the need for a strategic, integrated approach to statutory investment, operations and community engagement in the catchment. Local Government House 15 Altona Street, West Perth WA 6005 PO Box 1544, West Perth WA 6872 Tel (08) 9213 2000 Fax (08) 9322 2611 Email [email protected] www.walga.asn.au