Maribyrnongmaribyrnong Working Together for Healthy Waterways Catchment Works Program to Support the Draft Healthy Waterways Strategy

MaribyrnongMaribyrnong Working together for healthy waterways Catchment Works Program to support the draft Healthy Waterways Strategy

Version published on 20/06/2018 Acknowledgement of Country Contents

The communities, stakeholders and Melbourne Water, who Overview 2 together are responsible for implementing the Healthy Waterways Strategy, acknowledge and respect Wurundjeri and other Maribrynong: Co-designing our future 4 Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians. We recognise the Program logic 6 diversity of their cultures and the deep connections they have with the land and water of the Maribyrnong catchment. Cultural and economic values 8

We value partnerships with them for the health of people Waterway values 9 and country. Waterway Targets and Performance Objectives 10 The communities, stakeholders and Melbourne Water, who together are responsible for implementing the Healthy Waterways Sub-catchment programs 12 Strategy, pay their respects to Elders past and present, and we Rivers and Creeks 12 acknowledge and recognise the primacy of Wurundjeri and other Wetlands 34 Traditional Owners’ obligations, rights and responsibilities to use Estuaries 46 and care for their traditional lands and waters. Metrics 54

Getting involved 59

Our partners 60

Have your say

There are a number of ways you can have your say on this draft Strategy. Maribyrnong Online Catchment yoursay.melbournewater.com.au/healthy-waterways

Email [email protected]

Phone 131 722

For translating and interpreting services call 131 450. Teletypewriter (TTY) users can phone 133 677. A shared Strategy You are invited to participate in finalisation of the Strategy by commenting on the draft Strategy and committing to its implementation. To find out how, visit: Our rivers, creeks, wetlands and estuaries are shared places of yoursay.melbournewater.com.au/healthy-waterways enormous significance for Aboriginal culture, social gathering, the environment and economic productivity. Catchment Works Program The community, stakeholders and scientists are telling us our The Catchment Works Program supports the region-wide Strategy region’s waterways are at a tipping point. Continue as we are and by providing a flexible framework for managing waterways we risk further decline in waterway condition across the region, in the Maribyrnong Catchment that takes into account variable threatening the significant economic, social, cultural and climatic and development conditions and changing community environmental values our waterways provide. needs. It includes: Working collectively toward prioritised objectives and targets • An overview of the values in the catchment including challenges offers everyone a way to not only stem the decline but also unlock and opportunities the significant natural capital our waterways offer. • A vision, goals and long-term targets (10–50 years) for the The draft Healthy Waterways Strategy was developed using catchment a process of co-design to develop a shared Strategy. By bringing • Long-term targets (10–50 years) for waterway values and together professional expertise with the lived experience of waterways conditions supported by 10 year performance landholders, community groups, developers, Traditional Owners objectives for 10 sub-catchments, five representative wetlands and other stakeholders, it aims to support collaborative and three estuaries in the region. waterways management.

What are waterways? Throughout this Strategy the term waterway refers collectively to rivers and creeks, wetlands and estuaries

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 01 Overview If current policy and levels of investment are maintained without improvement, then it is likely that the Maribyrnong catchment will experience declines in environmental and social values over The Maribyrnong catchment covers an area of around 1408 the next 30 years. There is a real need to take action to avoid square kilometres. About 10 per cent of the catchment retains an otherwise inevitable decline in waterway health. its natural vegetation, 80 per cent is used for agriculture and 10 per cent is used for urban development – confined to greater Opportunities Melbourne and larger townships. With collective action, many of the region’s significant The catchment includes the 160-kilometre long Maribyrnong environmental values can be maintained or improved. For River – the second major river in the Port Phillip and Westernport example, managing stormwater in growth areas will support Region – which begins on the southern slopes of the Great Dividing platypus and macroinvertebrates (waterbugs). Range, near Lancefield. Fish values can be supported through removal of fish barriers and Challenges increasing the water available for the environment. Supporting Climate modelling shows the catchment is becoming hotter and the extent and quality of streamside vegetation will support bird drier, facing more periods of extreme heat and drought, reductions values. For the catchment’s wetlands, improvements to wetland in annual rainfall and increases in intense rainfall events. Population water regimes and habitat can support frogs and other modelling shows that the catchment will likely grow and undergo environmental values. transformations rivalling the changes driven by the gold rush and Wurundjeri and other Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Victorians post-war booms, adding 10,000 new dwellings per year. place cultural importance on the Maribyrnong’s waterways. A drier climate in an increasingly paved landscape poses a very This draft Strategy needs their involvement to share those values real threat to the long-term values of the Maribyrnong’s rivers and and help with collective decision and actions to conserve them. creeks, wetlands and estuaries while at the same time increasing There is also great opportunity to manage waterway corridors the importance of those spaces as a green and cool respite from as places for communities to connect, recreate and travel. the urban landscape. As the waterway manager for the region, Melbourne Water is Many wetlands are encroached by urban development reducing ready to implement its share of this Strategy. However, action the wetland area and losing the protection of a buffer of native by Melbourne Water alone is not sufficient to unlock the full vegetation. Groundwater-fed wetlands in this catchment are value of the region’s waterways. If this Strategy is to be effective it predicted to be most likely impacted by climate change. needs collective action; from State policy agencies, State regulators, local government and other land managers such as Parks Victoria. Predicted sea level rise will impact the future condition of the Even more so, it needs collective action by the development region’s estuaries and the values that they can support. Without sector, landholders, Traditional Owners and community groups. planning for landward migration of estuarine vegetation, existing ecological values may be lost due to an increasingly saline Working together we can realise the full value of the region’s environment. waterways – economic, cultural, social and environmental.

02 SUB-CATCHMENTS

1 Maribyrnong River 6 Jacksons Creek 2 Stony Creek 7 Emu Creek 3 Steele Creek 8 Deep Creek Upper 4 Taylors Creek 9 Deep Creek Lower Lancefield 5 Moonee Ponds Creek 10 Boyd Creek Newham 8 Romsey Springfield 10 Sub-catchment boundaries

Wetlands Darraweit Guim

Rivers and Creeks Macedon 7

Parks and reserves 9 1 6 Riddels Creek

Gisborne

Organ Pipes National Park Wildwood

The park is a cultural value as a site Sunbury of historical and archaeological significance. You can also enjoy a picnic and a walk to see the unique rock forms and the re-established native plants. Greenvale

Bulla 2

RIVERS - Brimbank Park, Maribyrnong River 5

3 Native fish species are benefitting from this fishway to assist 4 their passage through the river and 3 encourage effective spawning. Niddrie

5 WETLANDS - Pipemakers Park 4 1 Sunshine The wetlands provide environmental 3 and social value with its extensive 2 2 native trees, ponds and connecting 1 paths to explore.

WETLANDS ESTUARIES ESTUARY - Stony Creek Park Backwash and Stony Creek

1 Gisborne Marshlands 1 Stony Creek Estuary The estuary has been highly modified 2 Greenvale Res Park Wetlands 2 Maribyrnong River Estuary with bank stabilisation to prevent 3 Jacana Wetlands 3 Moonee Ponds Creek flooding and erosion. It was a bluestone 4 Pipemakers Park Wetlands Estuary quarry and now supports patches 5 Queens Park Wetlands of mangrove and saltmarsh.

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 03 Maribyrnong: Collaboration process Co-designing our future

One of Melbourne Water’s responsibilities is to create long-term April 2017 - Maribyrnong catchment plans that ensure the Maribyrnong catchment’s waterways are collaboration commenced healthy, liveable and accessible for future generations.

Collaborative process December 2017 In April 2017, the Maribyrnong Catchment Collaboration Vision, goals and waterways values defined commenced the process to identify and develop the refreshed Healthy Waterways Strategy for the Maribyrnong catchment. The collaboration was made up of interested community members, organisations and agencies to: March 2018 Preliminary Targets released • Develop a vision and goals for their catchment • Explore issues, opportunities and aspirations within the catchment • Identify where stakeholders need to focus their efforts and energy. March 2018 In developing this draft Strategy, six workshops were held with Engagement on Preliminary Targets over 80 participants representing around 50 organisations attending at least one workshop (the back pages list organisations that participated in this process). June 2018 Most recently the collaboration considered preliminary targets Draft Strategy released for the catchment and feedback from this process was used to develop this draft Strategy. June 2018 Engagement on Draft Strategy

End-August 2018 Final Strategy

End-October 2018 Government approval

Figure 1 Collaboration process for Maribyrnong catchment

04 Analysing feedback “There are gaps in the performance objectives A total of 277 comments were received on the preliminary targets specifically around stormwater and water for Maribyrnong catchment. Mostly these came from discussions extraction (diversions) - these are implied in some at the collaboration workshop and online feedback. of the objectives but it should be more explicit” The underlying theme was strong support for setting targets and – from discussion on Jacksons Creek targets performance objectives at the sub-catchment scale. However, this was tempered by concern that some targets were not sufficiently This feedback resulted in performance objectives being improved ambitious and would be unlikely to drive significant change from through additional context – to specify where works are needed, business as usual. There was also concern that some performance providing quantitative outcomes and making reference to related objectives were too generic and lacked sufficient detail to inform projects (e.g. extending the Maribyrnong River Trail). Targets set the types of activities needed to achieve the targets. in the draft Strategy will have a higher level of aspiration. “Targets should aim for improvement - don’t Maps were updated to show where the best strategic value for just expect it to remain ‘Very Low’, want to see works is – including improving vegetation buffers, removing fish barriers and prioritising areas for better stormwater management. improvement (especially from pollution)” – from discussion on Stony Creek targets

Figure 2 Feedback categories and responses

Feedback related to conditions Responses to feedback

Access 13% Access 13% Suggestion 11%

Habitat 3% Habitat 3% Clariﬁcation 9%

Instream Connectivity Unaligned 3% Typo/edit 2% 5% Litter 2% Litter 2% Investigate 3%

Participation 14% Participation 14% Noted/context 52%

Stormwater 19% Stormwater 19% Follow-up/contact 1%

Vegetation 17% Vegetation 17% Revise target/performance objective 22% Water for Environment 8% Water for Environment 8%

Water Quality 16% Water Quality 16%

Unaligned 3% Instream Connectivity 5%

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 05 The program logic

Monitoring, The draft Healthy Waterways evaluation Vision Strategy has been developed and reporting from a program logic based on a shared vision about: achieving a series of goals, identifying waterway values, and setting Performance Catchment Goals targets and performance objectives Communities objectives to track progress towards the vision and goals.

Waterway Waterway targets values

Figure 3 Program logic for developing the Strategy

06 VISION

A Maribyrnong catchment whose ecological health has significantly improved since 2018. It is accessible, used and valued by the community. Its collaborative management reflects the contributions of Traditional Owners and the broader community.

GOALS

1. Environmental: Management is helping create a preferred future for the Maribyrnong’s environments by assisting species and habitats to change, adapt, move or be replaced as the catchment and climate change. The Maribyrnong River and its tributaries are important bio-links – corridors of secure, high quality habitats that allow plants and animals to move and adapt to changes in catchment conditions and climate. Water quality and flows provide for healthy and diverse populations of plants and animals. Stormwater is managed to enhance rather than destroy waterway health. 2. Social: Waterways across the Maribyrnong are places that provide continuous, connected and accessible open spaces for public enjoyment and recreation. 3. Education: Public authorities, community groups and hundreds of individuals across the catchment share their knowledge of the Maribyrnong and take regular action to help pursue this Strategy’s goals. Education programs are resourced and coordinated across many organisations that are working or involved within the catchment. 4. Decision-making and action: Long-term monitoring supports adaptive management by tracking progress towards this Strategy’s goals. Urban planning decisions make explicit reference to their potential impacts on waterway environments. The Planning and Environment Act includes overlays to protect the river, its tributaries, floodplains and escarpments. Effects of planning decisions are monitored to support evaluation and learning. Melbourne Water is seen by all parties to the Strategy as a successful facilitator, enabler, coordinator and leader.

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 07

Cultural and Economic Values Economic values Good waterway condition provides the essential building block The holistic approach to waterway management means for liveability, growth and prosperity. Rivers provide water for managing waterways for cultural, economic, social and Victoria’s five million people and support agriculture, recreational environmental values. A region-wide approach is used for fishing and commercial industries. Declining waterway condition cultural and economic values. can lead to direct economic costs for communities. Recognising the economic values of waterways is essential to appreciating the Cultural values wide scope of ecosystem services – the benefits that humans The cultural values of waterways are based on the physical and receive from nature. spiritual connection of Traditional Owners to their lands and waters. This draft Strategy commits to working with Traditional Goals Owners to reconnect with their Country so that the cultural • Waterways are recognised as important natural capital significance of waterways can be restored. providing regionally-significant ecosystem services, value Cultural heritage includes culturally and spiritually significant and benefits places, stories and traditions for past and present Aboriginal • Waterway management will progressively incorporate communities. Places of significance include sacred sites, ceremonial frameworks for ecosystem accounting and valuation more sites, fish traps, burials, scarred trees, camp sites and settlements. formally into reporting systems.

Goal Performance objectives • Traditional Owners have a recognised role as custodians • Incorporate environmental-economic accounting into the ongoing of waterways and their cultural values. Their unique adaptive management and monitoring, evaluation and reporting to perspective and knowledge allows them to set the agenda support the delivery of the Healthy Waterways Strategy by 2023. for waterway management and actively participate in caring for their Country. Monitoring, evaluation Performance objectives and reporting (MER) • Traditional Owners have an increased expertise in Aboriginal culture, contemporary land and water management, waterway A detailed monitoring, evaluation and reporting (MER) science and lore plan will be developed together with the catchment • Partnership projects are extended or develop into new forms. collaboration forums to support adaptive management from planning to Strategy completion. The monitoring, Expertise developed in one project is applied in others evaluation and reporting plan will: • Traditional Owner groups are supported by industry partners, but set the agenda for waterway management by proactively • Present the program logic underpinning the draft Strategy developing communications, resolutions or project scopes and • Clarify the assumptions associated with the program logic seeking industry partners and identify strategies to manage potential risks • Aboriginal cultural awareness training is available to all industry • Identify the key questions for evaluation and establish professionals and is actively pursued processes to monitor progress within the framework • Cultural competency is valued as a career skill and leads to of the statewide monitoring program ongoing relationships • Clarify the communication and reporting needs and • Partnerships are fostered between Traditional Owner groups and identify the processes required to support these needs research groups, and Traditional Owner groups and community • Enable lessons learned from monitoring and evaluation groups to be gathered and inform improvement • Public events led and/or organised by Traditional Owners are • Consider the monitoring, evaluation and reporting needs regular and frequent. and practices of collaborating organisations • Facilitate synergies with the MER undertaken to support the Regional Catchment Strategy. The MER plan will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and relevant to informing adaptive management.

08 Waterway values

Cultural – more than 5,800 Economic – streams and Birds – over 350 bird species Fish value for rivers is low Aboriginal significant sites reservoirs in the upper and recorded, 95 are riparian overall, with 13 native and have been recorded – most middle parts of the specialists and two are nine exotic freshwater near waterways. Ancient catchment provide water threatened: Latham’s Snipe species recorded; including and very rare Aboriginal supply for a range of and the Eastern Great Egret. Australian grayling, Yarra sites with earthen rings can agricultural enterprises. Bird values are higher in the Pygmy Perch and Australian be found in the hills near upper catchment, but less Mudfish. Very little data Sunbury. in lower parts. Bird values for exists for wetland fish. Fish wetlands and estuaries are score for estuaries is high, very low due to poor water with good diversity including regimes, loss of vegetation Black Bream, Yellow-eye and urbanisation. Mullet and Mulloway.

Frogs value for rivers and Macroinvertebrates score Platypus have been Vegetation varies, with wetlands is low overall, for rivers is moderate, with observed in the lower forested areas in upper which means only half of values higher in forested reaches of Jacksons Creek catchment having high the expected species are to headwaters and decreasing near Sunbury, Deep Creek quality vegetation, but other be found today. Threatened towards the lower reaches, Upper and Lower, and in the parts of the catchment low species recorded in the which are increasingly Maribyrnong River near the to very low due to land catchment include Growling impacted by urban runoff. junctions with these creeks. clearing and urban Grass Frog, Bibron’s Toadlet development. Overall value and Southern Toadlet. for rivers is low and very low for wetlands and estuaries.

Amenity, which is based on Community connection, Recreation, which is based surveyed level of community which is based on surveyed on surveyed level of satisfaction, is currently high level of community community satisfaction, is but likely to decline if satisfaction, is currently currently high but likely to environmental values decline. high but likely to decline decline if demand doesn’t if opportunities don’t keep keep up with population up with population growth. growth.

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 09 Waterways Targets and Performance Objectives

Waterway value targets are established to ensure goals are on 6 Increase participation rates in education, capacity building and track. These values reflect community aspirations for waterways citizen science activities to enable greater level of environmental and ensure management is directly linked to desired outcomes. stewardship for our waterways. Targets for these waterway values are set on a timescale of 7 Develop a better understanding of the potential impacts of 10-plus years. emerging contaminants of concern such as microplastics, In order to improve waterway values, waterway management pesticides and pharmaceuticals. focuses on ensuring waterway conditions are appropriate. 8 Have in place methods to assess volume and source of litter There are many conditions that influence the waterway values; to inform litter reduction programs. however, to provide strategic direction for management, a suite of critical conditions is selected to inform management activities. 9 Ensure priority headwater streams are protected from urban Targets for these waterway conditions are set on a timescale development and retained as features in the landscape for of 10-plus years. environmental and social benefits. Performance objectives are written to guide activities and to 10 Undertake risk assessments, condition assessment and indicate progress towards improving the waterway conditions. prioritisation of additional wetlands in the Maribyrnong Improving the conditions improves the waterway values in the catchment. long- term. 11 Improve capacity and stewardship of wetlands on private land.

The following targets are catchment-based summary all of the 12 Assess Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands to determine rivers and creeks, wetlands and estuaries in the catchment for management requirements, and initiate program to improve which individual targets have been developed. A region based condition of Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands on private land. approach to cultural and economic values follows. These are also supported by catchment-wide performance objectives. 13 Ensure that wetland vegetation communities are adequately protected from urban and rural threats through appropriate interpretation and guidance on wetland vegetation and community Catchment performance objectives - Maribyrnong types in the application of the native vegetation planning The following performance objectives are relevant to the whole controls for wetland vegetation of catchment and will be reported against in a similar manner to the performance objectives for the sub-catchments. 14 Develop a better understanding of groundwater dependent ecosystems and look for opportunities to maintain or These performance objectives will be completed by 2028. improve these.

1 Address emerging threats to waterway values using a risk-based 15 Continue to manage and deliver existing environmental water approach to protect significant values and habitat through to the regions rivers and wetlands. annual planning. 16 Ensure that the use of recycled water for environmental purposes 2 Implement climate-ready revegetation by selecting plant species will be considered on a case-by-case basis and be consistent with and provenances that are suited to projected future climatic the Victorian Government’s policy on the use of recycled water. conditions. 17 Provide systems to share knowledge and information between 3 Protect waterways and Port Phillip Bay by maintaining constructed communities and stakeholders, and to empower communities wetlands for their designed purpose or deliver same outcome to participate and influence waterways management. by alternative means. 18 Improve understanding of existing rules around land management 4 Protect waterways and Port Phillip Bay by adopting a risk-based practices and increase resourcing for enforcement, capacity approach to identifying and mitigating sources of water pollution. building and behaviour change.

5 Improve long-term outcomes for waterways by continuing to support capacity building programs for stormwater and rural land managers.

10 Rivers and Creeks Performance Objectives

• Progressively implement stormwater harvesting, focusing • Establish 360 km and maintain 283 km of continuous vegetated on rural townships such as Lancefield, Romsey, Macedon and buffers (using EVC benchmarks and to at least a level 3 vegetation Mt Macedon and new urban areas such as Sunbury. Once this quality) along at least 80% of priority. In addition, increase catchment has reached its anticipated long-term urban footprint vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 10 km (2050), this will require around 15 GL/year of stormwater to support social values. harvested and 3.9 GL/year infiltrated. Ensure Directly Connected • Maintain 74 km of high and very high-quality vegetation Imperviousness (DCI) levels in these priority catchments do not (vegetation quality levels 4 and 5) through effective monitoring increase beyond current levels and headwater streams are and management of threats. retained as features in the landscape for environmental and social benefits. • Increase access along waterways by 34 km by improving connections with existing path networks and extending paths into • Investigate options to increase environmental water reserve new urban area, and investigate opportunities to improve access by 5 GL/year by 2028 to meet ecological watering objectives for on-water activities. and cover projected shortfalls. This will benefit Jacksons Creek and the lower Maribyrnong River. Any water recovery for the • Reduce nutrient and sediment runoff from rural land through environment will be considered through sustainable water improved management of 530 ha of land including works to protect strategies, markets and use of alternative water. and increase vegetation along headwater streams. • Identify opportunities to maintain or improve the flow regime • Provide connectivity for fish along major waterways through in refuge reaches to support instream values. removal of two more barriers by 2028. This will improve fish passage from the estuary to the mid-catchment, and along • Identify opportunities to reduce the key threat of flow stress Deep Creek. on waterways by addressing causal factors such as farm dams, climate change, diversions or urbanisation. • Conserve all currently listed water dependent species and communities (10 fauna species, 41 flora species and 25 EVCs) through habitat protection, research and monitoring.

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 11 Rivers and Creeks Sub-catchments

Boyd Creek Deep Creek Lower Deep Creek Upper Emu Creek Jacksons Creek Maribyrnong River Moonee Ponds Creek Steele Creek Stony Creek Taylors Creek

12 Rivers and Creeks

Rivers and Creeks value targets

Macro- Community Birds Fish Frogs invertebrates Platypus Vegetation Amenity connection Recreation

Rivers and Creeks

Potential trajectory The draft targets developed through collaborative actions

Current state Of Waterways Values

Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Very High High Moderate Low Very Low Sub-catchment averaged by stream length (km)

Rivers and Creeks condition targets

Water Water Water Stormwater for the Vegetation Vegetation quality - Instream Physical quality - Litter condition environment extent quality environment connectivity form Access recreational absence Participation

Rivers and Creeks

Potential trajectory The draft targets developed through collaborative actions

Current state Of Waterways Values

Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Very High High Moderate Low Very Low Sub-catchment averaged by stream length (km)

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 13 Boyd Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Boyd Creek rises near Mount WIlliam and flows through the rural lands west of Kilmore, before Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be joining Deep Creek upstream of Darraweit Guim. The two main tributaries in this area are Number balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, Three and Slab Hut creeks. The Boyd Creek Management Unit has no areas of formal significance, water quality. and limited areas of naturalness as a result of current and past landuse. Fish is low due to lack of instream and riparian habitat, and barriers to fish migration along the Maribyrnong River. There are no known threatened species found in the sub-catchment. Improvements to riparian vegetation, flows and removal of fish barriers are expected to increase the rating to moderate in the long term.

Targets Insufficient data to assess frogs score in Boyd Creek. Targeted management can reduce impacts to frogs from land use intensification and climate change effects. Waterway Waterway value targets are established Significant species include Southern Toadlet and Brown (Bibron’s) Toadlet. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is moderate as a result of a lack of instream and riparian habitat and flow stress. With improvements to riparian vegetation and flows the score is expected to increase to very high in long term. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus is low due to a lack of instream and riparian habitats and flows. They are expected to occur in the lower reaches near the confluence with Deep Creek. Improving riparian vegetation and restoring flows to the stream will prevent any further decline in the face of climate change. 10+ years

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is low due to large scale land use change and is predicted to decline to very low with persistent threats and climate change. Target is prevent further Performance objectives the waterway conditions. decline.

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

How to read the targets scores? WATERWAY VALUES TARGETS YEARS) - 50 (10 Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to maintain as high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Determine extent of and maintain high quality vegetation along Boyd Creek and tributaries through effective monitoring and management of threats Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is 1 Vegetation Quality including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. moderate and the target is moderate.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Improve water quality for environmental values and Port Phillip Bay by reducing turbidity and nutrient run-off from rural land. This may include 2 Water Quality - Environmental no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry establishment of vegetated buffers in headwater streams. users. The current state is very high and the target is very high.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (33 km) and maintain existing vegetation (7 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current 4 Water for Environment Reduce threat of summer low flow stress by addressing causal factors such as farm dams, diversions and climate change. state is very low and the target is moderate.

Support participation in Landcare and other rural programs that improve waterways and promote citizen science. Increase participation through support of Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Participation community/environment groups as rural population increases. state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (particularly along tributaries). objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is very high.

Water Quality (Recreational) is critical to minimise human health risks. Exposure to pathogens (disease causing microorganisms) via primary (e.g. swimming) 9 and/or secondary (e.g boating) can lead to illness. Water quality guidelines set water standards for primary and secondary contact. No data exists for this sub- catchment.

Participation in waterway management creates and enhances a sense of community. Similarly, citizen science strengthens social capital by increasing knowledge 10 of environmental / ecosystem services, skills and capacities, allowing people to meet and enhance social networks. The current state is Very High and the target is Very High.

14 Boyd Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

15 Deep Creek Lower Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Deep Creek rises near Newham in the Macedon Ranges and flows through the rural townships of Lancefield, Romsey and Darraweit Guim before joining Jacksons Creek at Bulla to become the Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be Maribyrnong River. The lower Deep Creek catchment commences near Romsey. The two main balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, tributaries in this area are Five Mile and Konagaderra creeks. The Deep Creek Lower Management water quality. Birds is likely to remain moderate overall. Unit has no areas of formal significance. It has limited areas of naturalness as a result of current and past landuse. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat and barriers to migration along the Maribyrnong River. There are currently no known listed species in the sub-catchment. Improvements to vegetation, flows, water quality and instream connectivity will increase score to very high over long term.

Targets Frogs score is high since many of the expected species were recorded. With targeted management score can be maintained despite impacts of land use Waterway Waterway value targets are established intensification and climate change. Significant species include Growling Grass Frog, Southern Toadlet and Brown (Bibron’s) Toadlet. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is moderate due to a lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, flows and water quality, with a current trajectory of decline to low. Improvements to urban stormwater and rural land management will increase score to high over long term. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus is moderate due to a lack of flows and instream and riparian habitat, with a predicted decline to very low. Management of flows, urban stormwater and improvements to riparian vegetation is expected to maintain score as moderate in the face of climate change. 10+ years

MAP Vegetation is low as quality and extent of riparian vegetation is largely degraded and threats such as pest plants and animals persist. With climate change score is Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Performance objectives predicted to decline to very low. Protection of the best areas and management of flows, pest plant and animal control and additional revegetation will improve the waterway conditions. some areas and increase overall score to moderate.

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to maintain as high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Maintain or achieve high and very high quality vegetation (level 4 and 5 vegetation quality is currently 9 km) along Deep Creek and tributaries through Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is low 1 Vegetation Quality effective monitoring and management of threats including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. and the target is moderate.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Improve stormwater condition by treating existing and future urban development from Darraweit Guim so directly connected imperviousness (DCI) is below 2 Stormwater no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry 1% prior to connection to Deep Creek. For every hectare of impervious area, this requires harvesting around 4.0 ML/y and infiltrating 0.8 ML/y. users. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (46 km) and maintain existing vegetation (7 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Water for Environment Identify opportunities to maintain or improve the flow regime in refuge reaches to support platypus and Yarra Pygmy Perch populations. is low and the target is moderate.

Improve access to waterways through extending Maribyrnong River Trail to Bulla and by additional paths and access points in townships and larger parks Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Access (about 5km of path). state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Increase participation rates from high to very high; support community groups, connect with growth area communities and build capacity of land owners Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Participation through rural programs. objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (particularly along tributaries). values. The current state is very low and the target is low. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is very high.

16 Deep Creek Lower Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

17 Deep Creek Upper Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Deep Creek rises near Newham in the Macedon Ranges and flows through the rural townships of Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be Lancefield, Romsey and Darraweit Guim before joining Jacksons Creek at Bulla to become the balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, Maribyrnong River. The upper reaches of Deep Creek lie above Romsey. Major tributaries within water quality. Significant species is the Powerful Owl. this area include Dry, Garden Hut, and Monument creeks. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat and barriers to migration along the Maribyrnong River. Significant species present include Yarra Pygmy Perch. Improvements to vegetation, flows (including urban stormwater) and removal of fish barriers will increase score to moderate and protect Yarra Pygmy Perch populations over long term.

Targets Frogs score is low since few of the expected species were recorded. With targeted management can maintain frogs score but is unlikely to improve more due to Waterway land use intensification and climate change effects on the volume and timing of flows. Significant species include Growling Grass Frog and Brown (Bibron’s) Waterway value targets are established values Toadlet. to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is moderate due to a lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, flows and water quality. Improvements to flows, extensive revegetation and prevention of water quality decline is expected to increase score to very high over long term. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus is moderate due to a lack in flows and instream and riparian habitat, with a predicted decline to low with impacts of a drier climate. Management of flows and improvements to riparian vegetation is expected to maintain current score in the face of climate change. 10+ years

MAP Vegetation is low as much of the riparian vegetation is degraded with only few high quality reaches remaining in the headwaters. With existing threats such as Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Performance objectives pest plants and animals and climate change score is predicted to decline to very low. Protection of the high quality reaches and management of key threats will the waterway conditions. improve score to moderate.

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is low 1 Water for Environment Maintain critical flow components in refuge reaches along Deep Creek to protect Yarra Pygmy Perch, platypus and other instream values. and the target is moderate.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is 2 Water for Environment Reduce threat of summer low flow stress by addressing causal factors such as farm dams, diversions and climate change. no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry users. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Maintain or achieve high and very high quality vegetation (level 4 and 5 vegetation quality is currently 28 km) along Deep Creek and tributaries through Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Vegetation Quality effective monitoring and management of threats including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Increase participation rates from high to very high; support community groups, connect with growth area communities and build capacity of land owners Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Participation through rural programs. is low and the target is high.

Improve stormwater condition by treating existing and future urban development in Lancefield and Romsey so directly connected imperviousness (DCI) is below 1% in Five Mile Ck before Deep Ck confluence; and below 1% in Lancefield prior to Deep Ck connection. For every hectare of impervious area, harvest Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Stormwater 5.0 ML/y and infiltrate 1.4 ML/y. For existing urban this is 0.5 GL/y and 0.2 GL/y for Lancefield, and 0.9 GL/y and 0.3 GL/y for Romsey. For new urban, further state is low and the target is low. 0.3 GL/y and 0.1 GL/y is required for Lancefield and 1.0 GL/y and 0.3 GL/y for Romsey.

Improve water quality for environmental values and Port Phillip Bay by reducing turbidity and nutrient run-off from rural land. This may include Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Water Quality - Environmental establishment of vegetated buffers in headwater streams. objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (136 km) and maintain existing vegetation (53 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). values. The current state is very low and the target is low. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (particularly along tributaries). naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is very high.

Water Quality (Recreational) is critical to minimise human health risks. Exposure to pathogens (disease causing microorganisms) via primary (e.g. swimming) Improve understanding of the extent, composition and condition of high and very high quality vegetation, and effectively monitor and manage both values 9 Vegetation Quality and/or secondary (e.g boating) can lead to illness. Water quality guidelines set water standards for primary and secondary contact. The current state is high and and threats the target is high.

18 Deep Creek Upper Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

19 Emu Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Emu Creek originates near Romsey and flows through basalt plains to join Deep Creek upstream of Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be Bulla. Major tributaries include Main, Charlies, Bolinda, Dry and Duckhole creeks, all of which balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, originate between the townships of Romsey and Riddells Creek. The Emu Creek Management Unit water quality. includes the Mount Charlie Flora Reserve and other smaller flora reserves. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat and barriers to migration along the Maribyrnong River. Improvements to fish passage, habitat and mitigation of urban impacts will increase score to moderate over long term.

Targets Frogs score is high since many of the expected species of frog were recorded. With targeted management score can be maintained despite impacts of land use Waterway Waterway value targets are established intensification and climate change. Significant species include Growling Grass Frog and Brown (Bibron’s) Toadlet. values to ensure goals are on track. targets Macroinvertebrates is moderate as a result of lack of flows and instream and riparian habitat and is predicted to decline to low in the face of un-mitigated 10 - 50 years urbanisation and climate change. Management of urban stormwater, rural flows and water quality and improvements to riparian vegetation will increase score to high in long term. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to Platypus is moderate due to a lack of flows and instream and riparian habitat. They are most likely to be found in the lower reaches near the confluence of Deep targets improve waterway values. Creek. The score is expected to decline to low as a result of urbanisation and climate change. Management of stormwater and rural flows, as well as 10+ years improvements to riparian vegetation is expected to maintain score as moderate.

MAP Vegetation is low as much of the riparian vegetation is degraded with only few high quality reaches remaining in upper reaches. Score is predicted to decline to Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Performance objectives very low due to persistent and emerging threats such as pest plant and animals and climate change. Long term outcome is to protect areas of remaining high the waterway conditions. quality and improve score to moderate.

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Prevent decline in stormwater condition by treating urban development in Emu Creek catchment (e.g. from new developments in Sunbury), so directly Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is 1 Stormwater connected imperviousness (DCI) remains below 0.4% at the confluence with Deep Creek. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting moderate and the target is moderate. around 4.4 ML/y and infiltrating 1.1 ML/y, which is about 3.4 GL/y and 0.8 GL/y for full development to the urban growth boundary.

Protect water quality for environmental values and Port Phillip Bay by managing sediment loads from construction activities and ensuring no pollutant or Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Water Quality - Environmental sediment laden run-off enters drains and waterways. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Maintain or achieve high and very high quality vegetation (level 4 and 5 vegetation quality is currently 14 km) along Emu Creek and tributaries through Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Vegetation Quality effective monitoring and management of threats including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. is low and the target is moderate.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Water for Environment Reduce threat of summer low flow stress by addressing causal factors such as farm dams, climate change, diversions or urbanisation. state is very low and the target is low.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (19 km) and maintain existing vegetation (30 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). In addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 1 km. objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (including impacts of urbanisation). values. The current state is very low and the target is low. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of Improve access to waterways through regional projects and by additional paths and access points in new urban areas, townships and larger parks (about 2 8 Access naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high km of path). and the target is very high.

Water Quality (Recreational) is critical to minimise human health risks. Exposure to pathogens (disease causing microorganisms) via primary (e.g. swimming) Increase participation rates from moderate to very high; support community groups, connect with growth area communities and build capacity of land 9 Participation and/or secondary (e.g boating) can lead to illness. Water quality guidelines set water standards for primary and secondary contact. No data exists for this sub- owners through rural programs. catchment.

20 Emu Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (including impacts of urbanisation). values. The current state is very low and the target is low. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of Improve access to waterways through regional projects and by additional paths and access points in new urban areas, townships and larger parks (about 2 8 Access naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high km of path). and the target is very high.

21 Jacksons Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Jacksons Creek rises in Bullengarook, near Gisborne and flows through Sunbury before joining Deep Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be Creek in Sydenham Park at Bulla near Melbourne Airport. Tributaries to Jacksons Creek include balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, Riddells, Sandy, Turitable, Willimagongong, Gisborne, Longview and Barringo creeks. Rosslynne water quality. Significant species is Powerful Owl. Target is to maintain as moderate. Reservoir is located on the upper Jacksons Creek and provides drinking water for Gisborne and Sunbury as well as for agricultural purposes. Fish is very low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat and barriers to fish migration along the Maribyrnong River and Jacksons Creek. Improvements to fish passage, revegetation and mitigation of urban and rural land use impacts will improve score to moderate over long term.

Targets Frogs score is very low since very few of the expected species of frog were recorded. With targeted management frogs score might improve to low but is unlikely Waterway to improve more due to land use intensification and climate change effects on the volume and timing of flows. Significant species include Growling Grass Frog and Waterway value targets are established values Brown (Bibron’s) Toadlet. to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is moderate as a result of a lack of flows as well as instream and riparian habitat, and urban stormwater. Management of key water quality and flow threats from urban and rural land use and revegetation will improve score to high in long term. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to Platypus is moderate due to a lack of instream and riparian habitat and urban stormwater, and is predicted to decline to very low. Management of land use targets improve waterway values. impacts and flows, as well as improvements to riparian vegetation is expected to maintain score as moderate in the face of future urban growth and climate 10+ years change.

MAP Vegetation is low as much of the riparian vegetation is degraded with only a few high quality reaches remaining in upper reaches. Score is predicted to decline to Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Performance objectives very low due to persistent and emerging threats such as pest plant and animals and climate change. The long term outcome is to increase score to moderate with the waterway conditions. a focus on areas of remaining high quality.

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Stormwater Condition is measured by directly connected imperviousness (DCI), which is the proportion of the impervious surface in the catchment that is directly connected to a stream through a conventional drainage connection. The current state is high and the target is very high. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives Prevent decline in stormwater condition by treating urban development in the Jacksons Creek catchment (e.g. from new developments in Sunbury and Gisborne), so directly connected imperviousness (DCI) is maintained or improved along the main stem of Jacksons Creek. For every hectare of new Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is 1 Stormwater impervious area, this requires harvesting around 4.5 ML/y and infiltrating 1.1 ML/y, which is about 8.4 GL/y and 2.0 GL/y for full development to the urban moderate and the target is moderate. growth boundary Improve stormwater condition by treating existing and future urban development from Macedon and Mount Macedon so directly connected imperviousness Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is 2 Stormwater (DCI) remains below 0.5% in Riddells Creek immediately downstream of Macedon. For every hectare of impervious area, this requires harvesting around 5.3 no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry ML/y and infiltrating 1.7 ML/y, which equates to approximately 0.5 GL and 0.2 GL for the two townships combined users. The current state is low and the target is high.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (77 km) and maintain existing vegetation (121 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Investigate options to increase environmental water reserve by 5 GL/year by 2028 to meet ecological watering objectives and cover projected shortfalls. This Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Water for Environment will benefit Jacksons Creek and the lower Maribynong River. Any water recovery will be considered through the sustainable water strategies, markets and is moderate and the target is high. use of alternative water.

Identify opportunities to maintain or improve flow regime in refuge reaches to support platypus populations and other instream values. Reduce threat of Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Water for Environment summer low flow stress by addressing causal factors such as farm dams, climate change, diversions or urbanisation. state is very low and the target is high.

Protect water quality for Port Phillip Bay and waterways by maintaining the current quality of discharges from sewage treatment plants (and reducing where Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Water Quality - Environmental possible) ensuring they are released in a manner that ensures environmental values are supported in the waterway. Reduce turbidity and nutrient run-off objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate. from rural land. This may include establishment of vegetated buffers in headwater streams.

Maintain or achieve high and very high quality vegetation (level 4 and 5 vegetation quality is currently 103 km) along Jacksons Creek and tributaries through Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Vegetation Quality effective monitoring and management of threats including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping and understanding of the extent, values. The current state is very low and the target is low. composition and condition of high and very high quality vegetation. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (including impacts of urbanisation). naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is very high.

Water Quality (Recreational) is critical to minimise human health risks. Exposure to pathogens (disease causing microorganisms) via primary (e.g. swimming) Improve access to waterways through regional projects such as the Maribyrnong River Trail to Sunbury and by additional paths and access points in new 9 Access and/or secondary (e.g boating) can lead to illness. Water quality guidelines set water standards for primary and secondary contact. The current state is high and urban areas, townships and larger parks (about 10 km of path). the target is high.

Participation in waterway management creates and enhances a sense of community. Similarly, citizen science strengthens social capital by increasing knowledge Increase participation rates from moderate to very high; support community groups and citizen science, connect with growth area communities and build 10 Participation of environmental / ecosystem services, skills and capacities, allowing people to meet and enhance social networks. The current state is Moderate and the target is capacity of land owners through rural programs. Very High.

22 Jacksons Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

1 - 10 years

Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain as high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

23 Maribyrnong River Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

The Maribyrnong River begins where Deep and Jacksons creeks meet in Sydenham Park near Keilor Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Score is likely to decline with fewer expected species North and flows through steep sided country, Brimbank Park and the urbanised inner western because of habitat degradation due to increased disturbance and introduced predators as well as effects of climate change. Significant species include Eastern suburbs of Melbourne before joining the Yarra River estuary at Yarraville. Melbourne Airport lies Great Egret and Intermediate Egret. just to the east of the confluence of Jacksons and Deep creeks. Fish is moderate due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, urban stormwater and barriers to fish migration. Significant species present include the Australian Grayling and Australian mudfish. Improvements to vegetation, stormwater and removal of fish barriers will increase score to very high in long term.

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is low as a result of a lack of instream and riparian habitat, and urban stormwater. Habitat improvements as well as progressive management of urban stormwater will be required to maintain score as low in the face of future urban growth and climate change. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to Platypus is very low due to a lack of instream and riparian habitat and urban stormwater. They are most likely to occur near the confluence with Jackson and targets improve waterway values. Deep Creeks. Management of urban stormwater and flows, as well as improvements to riparian vegetation is expected to increase score to low in the face of 10+ years future urban growth and climate change.

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is rated as low, primarily as a result of urbanisation and persistent threats such as pest plants and animals. Progressive revegetation and management Performance objectives the waterway conditions. of threats will improve score to moderate.

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? WATERWAY VALUES TARGETS YEARS) - 50 (10 Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Increase instream connectivity by providing fish passage between between the mouth of the Maribyrnong River to the confluence with Deep Creek and Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is high 1 Instream Connectivity Jacksons Creek (by removing Arundel Road Weir and McNabs Weir) and the target is high.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Determine extent of and maintain high quality vegetation along Maribyrnong River and tributaries through effective monitoring and management of threats 2 Vegetation Quality no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. users. The current state is moderate and the target is high.

Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (25 km) and maintain existing vegetation (16 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Vegetation Extent level 3 vegetation quality). In addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Investigate options to increase environmental water reserve for the catchment is increased by 5 GL/year by 2028 to meet ecological watering objectives and Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current 4 Water for Environment cover projected shortfalls. This will benefit Jacksons Creek and the lower Maribynong River. Any water recovery will be considered through the sustainable state is low and the target is very high. water strategy, markets and the use of alternative water.

Increase access along waterways from 50% to 69% (about 10 km) by filling gaps in existing path networks, improving connections and extending the Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Access Maribyrnong River Trail. For on-water activities increase boat launching/recovery facilities for canoe/kayaking (non-motor) in the middle reaches. state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 Water Quality – Recreational Protect recreational water quality in Maribyrnong River to support existing recreational activities (swimming above Brimbank Park and boating downstream). objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Increase participation rates from low to high; support community groups and citizen science and build capacity of land owners in upper catchment through Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 Participation rural programs. Increase participation through promotion of high value species in the region (e.g. Growling Grass Frog). values. The current state is moderate and the target is very high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS TARGETS)YEAR (10+

Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 Water for Environment Identify opportunities to maintain or improve the flow regime in refuge reaches to support platypus populations and other instream values. naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

24 Maribyrnong River Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

25 Moonee Ponds Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Protecting and improving riparian habitat will be Moonee Ponds Creek originates north of Greenvale and flows through Woodlands Historic balanced against adverse effects of land use intensification and climate change driven reductions in flow volumes and durations/seasonality and, potentially, Parklands and along the Citylink route before joining the Yarra River at Docklands. Yuroke Creek is a water quality. Significant species include Eastern Great Egret and Powerful Owl. tributary and joins Moonee Ponds Creek upstream of the Jacana wetlands Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, urban stormwater and barriers to migration, particularly highly modified channels in the middle and lower parts. Improvements to fish passage, instream and riparian habitat, water quality and flows in the long term will increase score to moderate - particularly in middle to upper reaches.

Targets Frogs score is low since only some of the expected species of frog were recorded. With targeted management frogs score can be maintained at low but is unlikely Waterway to improve more due to land use intensification and climate change effects on the volume and timing of flows. Significant species include Growling Grass Frog and Waterway value targets are established values Brown (Bibron’s) Toadlet. to ensure goals are on track. targets Macroinvertebrates is low as a result of a lack of instream and riparian habitat, and urban stormwater, particularly in the middle to lower reaches. With increasing 10 - 50 years urbanisation and climate change score is expected to decline to very low without intervention. Management of stormwater and flows and improvements to riparian vegetation will ensure no further decline. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus are no longer expected to be found in Moonee Ponds Creek as a result of large-scale urbanisation, lack of suitable habitat and isolation from Yarra and Maribyrnong River populations. 10+ years

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is low overall and predicted to decline further as a result of large scale existing and proposed urbanisation. Long term outcome is to increase quality of Performance objectives the waterway conditions. priority reaches and improve overall score to moderate.

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Determine extent of and maintain high quality vegetation along Moonee Ponds Creek and tributaries through effective monitoring and management of Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is 1 Vegetation Quality threats including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. moderate and the target is moderate.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (33 km) and maintain existing vegetation (9 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a 2 Vegetation Extent no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry level 3 vegetation quality). In addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 4 km. users. The current state is low and the target is low.

Increase access along waterways from 48% to 52% (about 3 km of path) by filling gaps in existing path networks and improving connections with a focus on Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Access urban and urban growth areas. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Increase participation rates from very low to high; support community groups and citizen science and build capacity of land owners in upper catchment Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Participation through rural programs. Increase participation through Moonee Ponds Creek Collaboration. is very low and the target is high.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 Physical form Investigate and mitigate threats to physical form (e.g. erosion) and other high values (including impacts of urbanisation). state is low and the target is very high.

Water Quality (Environmental) indicates compliance with the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria environmental water quality 6 objectives (EPA Water Quality Index) using the Yarra and Bay Report Card Scoring Method. The current state is low and the target is low.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 values. The current state is moderate and the target is high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

26 Moonee Ponds Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

27 Steele Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Steele Creek originates at Keilor Park near Melbourne Airport, flows through Keilor East under the Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Score is likely to decline with fewer expected species Western Ring Road and Calder Freeway then joins the Maribyrnong estuary at Avondale Heights. recorded, because of habitat degradation due to increased disturbance of habitat and introduced predators as well as the effects of climate change. Target is to The Steele Creek Management Unit has limited areas of naturalness as a result of current and past maintain as moderate. landuse, and extensive urbanisation. Areas with some naturalness can be found on the northern side of the Western Ring Road. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, urban stormwater and barriers to fish migration, particularly highly modified sections in middle to upper reaches. Significant species present include Australian mudfish. Improvements to riparian vegetation and progressive improvements to stormwater are expected to increase the rating to moderate in the long term.

Targets Frogs score is very low since very few of the expected species of frog were recorded. The combined effects of reduced rainfall and flows, and urban land use Waterway Waterway value targets are established intensification mean the frog community is predicted to remain in a very low condition. values to ensure goals are on track. targets Macroinvertebrates is very low primarily from extensive urbanisation and many reaches where the channel is highly modified. Without substantial management 10 - 50 years of urban stormwater and improvements to instream habitat and water quality, score is likely to remain very low in the face of future urban growth and climate change. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus are no longer expected to be found in Steele Creek as a result of large-scale urbanisation, lack of suitable habitat and isolation from the Maribyrnong River population. 10+ years

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is low, primarily as a result of urbanisation and persistent threats such as pest plants and animals. Without management this score will become very Performance objectives the waterway conditions. low. The long term outcome is to prevent decline through management of key threats.

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Increase access along waterways from 44% to 59% (about 2 km of path) by filling gaps and improving connections with existing path network and building Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is high 1 Access new crossings (formal and informal) and the target is high.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Establish and maintain a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (1 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a level 3 vegetation quality). In 2 Vegetation Extent no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 3 km. users. The current state is low and the target is low.

Increase participation rates from low to high; support community groups and build capacity of land owners in upper catchment through rural programs. Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Participation Increase business/industry participation in waterway health education and capacity building programs. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is low.

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 is very low and the target is low.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 state is low and the target is low.

28 Steele Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 is very low and the target is low.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 state is low and the target is low.

29 Stony Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Stony Creek originates in Sunshine and flows through Tottenham, West Footscray and Yarraville Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Score is likely to decline with fewer expected species before entering the Yarra River at Spotswood underneath the West Gate Bridge. The Stony Creek recorded, because of habitat degradation due to increased disturbance and introduced predators as well as effects of climate change. Significant species include Management Unit has limited areas of naturalness as a result of current and past landuse, and Eastern Great Egret and Intermediate Egret and (rarely) Common Sandpiper. Target is to maintain as moderate. extensive urbanisation. There are still patches of mangrove and saltmarsh in the lower reaches of the estuary. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, urban stormwater (particularly poor water quality from industrial sites) and barriers to fish migration, particularly many reaches where the channel is highly modified. Improvements to fish passage and instream habitat will increase score to moderate over long term.

Targets Frogs score is very low since very few of the expected species of frog were recorded. The combined effects of reduced rainfall and flows, and urban land use Waterway Waterway value targets are established intensification mean the frog community is predicted to remain in a very low condition. values to ensure goals are on track. targets Macroinvertebrates is very low primarily from extensive urbanisation and many reaches where the channel is highly modified. Without substantial management 10 - 50 years of urban stormwater and improvements to instream habitat and water quality, score is likely to remain very low in the face of future urban growth and climate change. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus are no longer expected to be found in Stony Creek as a result of large-scale urbanisation, lack of suitable habitat and isolation from Yarra and Maribyrnong River populations. 10+ years

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is very low overall as a result of large scale land use change. Revegetation and improvements to existing vegetation will in long term improve score to Performance objectives the waterway conditions. low.

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Increase access along waterways from 33% to 51% (about 2 km) by filling gaps and improving connections to existing path network - align with priorities in Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is high 1 Access the Stony Creek Directions Plan. and the target is high.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is 2 Vegetation Extent Increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 1 km. no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry users. The current state is low and the target is low.

Increase participation rates from very low to high; support community groups and citizen science and build capacity of business/industry through waterway Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Participation health education. woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is very low and the target is low.

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 is low and the target is low.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 state is moderate and the target is moderate.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 values. The current state is low and the target is high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

30 Stony Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Targets Frogs score is very low since very few of the expected species of frog were recorded. The combined effects of reduced rainfall and flows, and urban land use Waterway Waterway value targets are established intensification mean the frog community is predicted to remain in a very low condition. values to ensure goals are on track. targets Macroinvertebrates is very low primarily from extensive urbanisation and many reaches where the channel is highly modified. Without substantial management 10 - 50 years of urban stormwater and improvements to instream habitat and water quality, score is likely to remain very low in the face of future urban growth and climate change. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus are no longer expected to be found in Stony Creek as a result of large-scale urbanisation, lack of suitable habitat and isolation from Yarra and Maribyrnong River populations. 10+ years

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 is low and the target is low.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 values. The current state is low and the target is high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

31 Taylors Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Taylors Creek originates near Sydenham and flows through Taylors Lakes before entering the Birds (riparian) is moderate, which means most expected species occur but some of these only infrequently. Score is likely to decline with fewer expected species Maribyrnong River at Brimbank Park, Keilor. The Taylors Creek Management Unit has limited areas because of habitat degradation due to increased disturbance of habitat and introduced predators as well as effects of climate change. Target is to maintain as of naturalness as a result of current and past landuse, and extensive urbanisation. Areas with some moderate. naturalness can be found along Taylors Creek within Green Gully Reserve and Brimbank Park. Fish is low due to lack of suitable instream and riparian habitat, urban stormwater and barriers to fish migration, particularly highly modified sections in the middle to upper reaches. Improvements to fish passage, instream and riparian habitat and improved management of stormwater will improve score to moderate over long term, particularly in lower reaches.

Targets Frogs score is moderate since not as many of the expected species of frog were recorded. Despite the combined effects of reduced rainfall and flows and urban Waterway Waterway value targets are established land use intensification, frogs score will be maintained as moderate. The Growling Grass Frog is a threatened species that should occur in this sub-catchment. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Macroinvertebrates is very low primarily from urbanisation and many reaches where the channel is highly modified, particularly in middle to upper part. With improvements to riparian and instream habitat, as well as progressive management of urban stormwater, score will increase to low. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Platypus are no longer expected to be found in Taylors Creek, as a result of large-scale urbanisation and lack of suitable habitat, except for potential use of the lower reaches near the confluence with Maribyrnong River. 10+ years

MAP Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Vegetation is low, primarily as a result of large scale urbanisation and persistent threats such as pest plants and animals. Without intervention it is predicted to Performance objectives the waterway conditions. reduce to very low. Progressive revegetation and management of threats will improve score to moderate.

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Determine extent of and maintain high quality vegetation along Taylors Creek and tributaries through effective monitoring and management of threats Physical form is the degree of geomorphic naturalness combined with likelihood of erosion occurring along bed or banks of waterways. The current state is high 1 Vegetation Quality including protection of endangered EVCs. Fill data gaps in mapping of high quality vegetation. and the target is high.

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (1 km) and maintain existing vegetation (1 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a 2 Vegetation Extent no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry level 3 vegetation quality). In addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 1 km. users. The current state is low and the target is low.

Increase access along waterways from 43% to 57% (about 2 km of path) by filling gaps and improving connections with existing path network, and extending Vegetation Quality is a description of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and accounting for grassland or sparsely treed 3 Access network into new urban areas woodland communities which do not exhibit 100 per cent canopy cover. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Increase participation rates from very low to high; support community groups and citizen science and connect with growth area communities. Increase Vegetation Extent denotes the percentage of reach that has continuous indigenous vegetation cover within 20 metres either side of the stream. The current state 4 Participation participation through promotion of high value species in the region (e.g. Growling Grass Frog). is very low and the target is low.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 state is low and the target is low.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 values. The current state is moderate and the target is very high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

32 Taylors Creek Sub-catchment

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

1 - 10 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue growth; target is to improve to very high. Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High improve to very high.

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Water for environment indicates compliance with flow requirements of freshwater river systems. These are identified through FLOWS method, or (where there is Establish a continuous riparian vegetated buffer (1 km) and maintain existing vegetation (1 km) along priority reaches (using EVC benchmarks to at least a 2 Vegetation Extent no flow study) Flow Stress Ranking (FSR), which indicates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry level 3 vegetation quality). In addition to improve social values increase vegetation cover in existing and planned urban areas by 1 km. users. The current state is low and the target is low.

Instream Connectivity is measured by the proportion of waterway length within the management unit that is free from barriers to fish movement. The current 5 state is low and the target is low.

Access to the waterway and riparian corridor supports a range of on water, in water and beside water experiences and is an enabling condition for all three social 7 values. The current state is moderate and the target is very high. WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS Aesthetics (Litter) is a strong indicator of stream health – clean waterways are healthy waterways and aesthetically pleasing. Litter detracts from the sense of 8 naturalness and creates a perception that a place is uncared for. It also detracts from the enjoyment of active and passive recreation. The current state is high and the target is high.

33 Wetlands

Gisborne Marshlands Greenvale Reservoir Park Wetlands Jacana Wetlands Pipemakers Park Wetlands Queens Park Wetlands

34 Wetlands

Wetland value targets

Community Birds Fish Frogs Vegetation Amenity connection Recreation

Wetlands

Potential trajectory The draft targets developed through collaborative actions

Current state Of Waterways Values

Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Very High High Moderate Low Very Low No data

Wetland condition targets

Wetland condition targets Performance objectives

Wetland Wetland • Implement key actions in site Water buffer Vegetation water regime Habitat condition condition quality management plans for significant wetlands and planning for climate change adaptation and resilience.

Wetlands • Investigate opportunities to improve wetland water regime to meet ecological watering objectives, Potential trajectory improve ecosystem services, cultural The draft targets developed through collaborative actions and social value. • Reduce the threat of invasive plants

Current state on wetland vegetation communities. Of Waterways Values • Improve the buffer of native vegetation surrounding key wetlands. Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Moderate Low Very Low

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 35 Gisborne Marshlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Gisborne Marsh is located within the Gisborne Nature Conservation Reserve and is classified as a Wetland bird score is very low and is predicted to improve to moderate through improvements to wetland water regime and vegetation. temporary freshwater marsh or meadow. It status as a Seasonally Herbaceous Wetland, which is EPBC listed is to be confirmed.

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the Strategy implementation.

Targets Frog score is moderate, with a predicted decline to very low. Reduction in threats of changed wetland water regime and improvements to wetland vegetation Waterway Waterway value targets are established condition will help maintain the frog score. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Vegetation is currently moderate, with a current trajectory of decline to very low. Improvements to wetland water regime will drive an improvement in wetland vegetation condition and value. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to maintain at high. 10+ years

Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population Performance objectives the waterway conditions. growth; target is to maintain at high.

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to maintain at high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is moderate. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Investigate opportunities to improve wetland water regime to meet ecological watering objectives, improve ecosystem services, cultural and social value in 1 Water regime Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is low and the target is low. line with Gisborne Marshlands Enviornmental Management Plan

2 Vegetation (condition) Reduce invasive flora threat to low Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetalnd vegetation is intact. The current state is moderate and the target is high.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

36 Gisborne Marshlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the Strategy implementation.

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetland vegetation is intact. The current state is moderate and the target is high.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is moderate and the target is moderate.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

37 Greenvale Reservoir Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Greenvale Reservoir Park is adjacent to Melbourne Water's Greenvale Reservoir, which is an off- Wetland bird score is very low. The site is primarily managed for social and water supply values. river storage (26,839 ML) built in 1971 to provide drinking water supplies to the north-western and western suburbs of Melbourne. The park includes a chain of ponds built along Brodies Creek.

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the strategy implementation.

Targets

Waterway Frog Score is very low and is predicted to remain very low in the long-term. The site is primarily managed for social and water supply values. Waterway value targets are established values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Vegetation is very low with a long-term trajectory of very low. Management of the site as a water supply storage limits the ability to support diverse wetland vegetation. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. 10+ years

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is very low and the target is 1 very low.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetalnd vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

38 Greenvale Reservoir Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the strategy implementation.

Targets

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is very low and the target is 1 very low.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetland vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

39 Jacana Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

The Jacana Wetlands are artificial wetlands constructed by Melbourne Water to manage nitrogen Jacana wetland is primarily managed as a stormwater treatment wetland. The wetland bird score is currently very low, with a predicated long-term trajectory of levels in local stormwater run-off. However, along with this significant role in improving water very low. quality, the wetlands also contain some significant environmental values including Growling Grass Frog.

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the strategy implementation.

Targets Jacana wetlands support a population of Growling Grass Frog, leading to a frog score of very high. The current trajectory is a decline to moderate, however, Waterway Waterway value targets are established reducing risk associated with threats of poor water quality and vegetation condition are predicted to maintain score at very high. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Vegetation is very low. Long-term improvements to wetland water regime and water quality along with improvements to wetland buffer condition and vegetation condition are predicted to improve the wetland vegetation score to moderate. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. 10+ years

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

1 Water quality Maintain stormwater treatment design intent of Jacana wetland, with consideration of Growling Grass Frog community Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is low and the target is low.

2 Bird (value) Reduce invasive fauna threat to low Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

3 Buffer Improve wetland buffer width and fill gaps in wetland buffer length Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetalnd vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

40 Jacana Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the strategy implementation.

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

2 Bird (value) Reduce invasive fauna threat to low Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

3 Buffer Improve wetland buffer width and fill gaps in wetland buffer length Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetland vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is moderate.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

41 Pipemakers Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Pipemakers Park is an eight hectare reserve located on Van Ness Avenue on the Maribyrnong River in Maribyrnong. Burton Crescent Reserve is located further north along the River, while Frogs Wetland bird score is very low. Continuing threats associated with urbanisation including changed wetland water regime, poor vegetation quality and poor Hollow Wetlands are located to the south. Thompson Reserve is a four hectares reserve located to wetland water quality will maintain score as very low. the west on Gordon Street. The area is located in the Maribyrong River Valley and includes flood plain and a steep escarpment along the Van Ness Avenue boundary. Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish will be developed through the strategy implementation.

Targets Frog Score is very low and is predicted to remain very low in the long-term. Threats including poor water quality, changed wetland water regime and very poor Waterway Waterway value targets are established wetland vegetation quality will limit the frog community. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Vegetation is currently very low and it is predicted to remain very low.

Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very high. 10+ years

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is moderate and the target is 1 moderate.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetalnd vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

42 Pipemakers Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

10 - 50 years Vegetation is currently very low and it is predicted to remain very low.

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is moderate and the target is 1 moderate.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetland vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

43 Queens Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Queens Park located in Moonee Ponds includes an ornamental lake surrounded by parkland. From Wetland bird score is very low. It is not formally recognised as significant bird habitat and currently has very poor wetland vegetation condition. The long-term the late 1800s the park was used as a water reserve for travelling stock and as a stop-over point for bird score will remain very low. travellers to the gold fields. Today the lake and surrounding gardens are a small retreat from the busy streets near by.

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish in this catchment will be developed through the strategy implementation.

Targets Frogs score for the Moonee Ponds sub-catchment has been applied for Queens Park Wetlands. The frog value is currently low and is predicted to decline due to Waterway Waterway value targets are established high threats continuing from poor water quality, vegetation condition, vegetation buffer and water regime. Target is to maintain. values to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Vegetation is currently very low. Very low and low conditions in the long-term will maintain the vegetation value at very low.

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is very low and the target is 1 very low.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetalnd vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

44 Queens Park Wetlands

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Very little data exists for wetland fish and a metric for wetland fish in this catchment will be developed through the strategy implementation.

10 - 50 years Vegetation is currently very low. Very low and low conditions in the long-term will maintain the vegetation value at very low.

1 - 10 years Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Water regime is associated with changes to the flow regime such as interference with natural connectivity. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Wetland habitat form considers the extent that the wetland area has been reduced through levee, diversions etc. The current state is very low and the target is 1 very low.

2 Wetland buffer condition is the native vegetation above the maximum inundation extent. The current state is very low and the target is low.

3 Vegetation condition refers to the extent of 'natural' wetland vegetation is intact. The current state is very low and the target is low.

4 Wetland water quality considers the changed water properties within the wetland. The current state is very low and the target is low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

45 Estuaries

Maribyrnong River Estuary Moonee Ponds Creek Estuary Stony Creek Estuary

46 Estuaries

Estuary value targets

Community Birds Fish Vegetation Amenity connection Recreation

Estuaries

Potential trajectory The draft targets developed through collaborative actions

Current state Of Waterways Values

Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Very High High Moderate Low Very Low

Estuary condition targets

Estuary condition targets Performance objective

Estuarine • Protect remnant estuarine Longitudinal Water Estuarine wetland Flow regime Exchange extent quality vegetation connectivity vegetation communities, particularly coastal saltmarsh, through targeting key invasive plant Estuaries species. • Protect refuge habitats Potential trajectory through maintaining critical The draft targets developed through collaborative actions stream flow components. • Investigate opportunities

Current state to improve access for Of Waterways Values on-water activities, and improve connections with existing path networks. Current trajectory The likely outcome if current policies and effort continue

Very High High Moderate Low Very Low

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 47 Maribyrnong River Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

The Maribyrnong River estuary confluence with the Yarra River is about 3.5 km upstream of the Estuarine bird score is very low. The estuary is fringed by a highly industrial environment and the predicted climate change impacts will further erode suitable bird Yarra River entrance to Port Phillip Bay near Yarraville. The tidal influence in the Maribyrnong River habitat. extends 12.8 km upstream to the Canning Street Ford. Riparian vegetation is sparse so banks have been stabilised by concrete lining and rock walls.

Fish score is high and predicted to remain high in the long-term. A good diversity of estuarine dependent species inhabit the estuary and are likely to remain.

Targets Vegetation is very low. Reducing the threat of invasive weeds to the little remaining areas of salt marsh will improve vegetation to low. Adopting some climate Waterway change adaption strategies may mitigate some risk to vegetation, however, the estuary is fringed by highly industrialised and urbanised environments allowing Waterway value targets are established values little potential for vegetation communities to migrate into more favourable less saline conditions. to ensure goals are on track. targets

10 - 50 years Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if environmental values decline; target is to improve to very Map high. Waterway Waterway management focuses on ensuring conditions waterway conditions are appropriate to targets improve waterway values. Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if opportunities don’t keep up with population growth; target is to improve to very high. 10+ years

Guide activities and indicate progress towards improving Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline in long-term if supply doesn’t keep up with population growth; target is to Performance objectives the waterway conditions. improve to very high.

1 - 10 years

How to read the targets scores? YEARS) 50 - (10 TARGETS WATERWAY VALUES Current state - current score of waterway values and conditions Current trajectory - long-term scores if current policies and effort continue Potential trajectory - targets for the long-term scores to be achieved through implementing the Strategy

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Flow regime relates to the degree of change from 'natural conditions'. The current state is very low and the target is moderate. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

1 Vegetation Quality Protect remnant estuarine vegetation communities, particularly coastal saltmarsh, through targeting key invasive plant species. Tidal exchange is associated the ability of sea water and freshwater to mix in the estuarine environment. The current state is very high and the target is very high.

2 Flow Regime Maintain critical flow components in refuge reaches to protect instream environmental values. Longitudinal extent is assoicated with barriers that interfere with the movement of water. The current state is low and the target is moderate.

Investigate opportunities to improve access for on-water activities, and improve connections 3 Access Water Quality incorporates compliance with the EPA Victoria's water quality guidelines for estuaries. The current state is very low and the target is moderate. with existing path networks.

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

48 Maribyrnong River Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Fish score is high and predicted to remain high in the long-term. A good diversity of estuarine dependent species inhabit the estuary and are likely to remain.

1 - 10 years

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

49 Moonee Ponds Creek Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory Moonee Ponds Creek starts near Greenvale and flows through the inner suburbs of Melbourne, including Broadmeadows, Essendon and Flemington, before joining the Yarra River at Docklands. Estuarine bird score is very low. The estuary is fringed by a highly industrial environment and the predicted climate change impacts will further erode suitable bird The estuarine section is highly modified and concrete lined to reduce flooding and erosion. A likely habitat. tidal flow barrier is 2.7 km upstream immediately after Macaulay Road Bridge. There is minimal lateral connectivity with flood plain due to modification and much of the bank vegetation has been removed. Fish score is high and is predicted to remain high in the long-term. A good diversity of estuarine dependent species inhabit the estuary and are likely to remain.

Targets Vegetation is low with a current trajectory of very low. Reducing threat of invasive weeds to the little remaining areas of salt marsh will maintain score at low. Waterway Adopting some climate change adaption strategies may mitigate some risk to vegetation, however, the estuary is fringed by highly industrialised and urbanised Waterway value targets are established values environments allowing little potential for vegetation communities to migrate into more favourable less saline conditions. to ensure goals are on track. targets

1 - 10 years

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Flow regime relates to the degree of change from 'natural conditions'. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

50 Moonee Ponds Creek Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

1 - 10 years

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Flow regime relates to the degree of change from 'natural conditions'. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

51 Stony Creek (Port Phillip Bay) Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

The Stony Creek estuary confluence with the Yarra River is about 2.5 km upstream of the Yarra Estuarine bird score is very low. The estuary is fringed by a highly industrial environment and the predicted climate change impacts will further erode suitable bird River entrance to Port Phillip Bay near Newport. The system is highly modified with bank habitat. stabilisation to prevent flooding and erosion. The substrate is primarily silt and sand. Stony Creek Backwash, which was a former bluestone quarry, supports patches of mangrove and saltmarsh.

Fish score is high and predicted to remain high in the long-term. A good diversity of estuarine dependent species inhabits the estuaries and are likely to remain.

Targets Vegetation is low with a current trajectory of very low. Reducing threat of invasive weeds to the little remaining areas of salt marsh will maintain vegetation at Waterway low. Adopting some climate change adaption strategies may mitigate some risk to vegetation, however, the estuary is fringed by highly industrialised and Waterway value targets are established values urbanised environments allowing little potential for vegetation communities to migrate into more favourable less saline conditions. to ensure goals are on track. targets

1 - 10 years

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Flow regime relates to the degree of change from 'natural conditions'. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

52 Stony Creek (Port Phillip Bay) Estuary

TARGETS SCORES

Current Current Potential state trajectory trajectory

Fish score is high and predicted to remain high in the long-term. A good diversity of estuarine dependent species inhabits the estuaries and are likely to remain.

1 - 10 years

Score key:  Very Low  Low  Moderate  High  Very High

For description of scores see metrics tables at end of document

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES Flow regime relates to the degree of change from 'natural conditions'. The current state is very low and the target is low. PO-ID Condition Supported Performance Objectives

Estuarine vegetation is associated with the extent to which estuaring vegetation extent and condition is modified. The current state is very low and the target is 4 low.

Estuarine wetland connectivity relates to the proportion of the estuary that is connected to its fringing wetlands. The current state is very low and the target is 5 low.

7 WATERWAY CONDITIONS (10+ YEAR TARGETS) YEAR (10+ WATERWAY CONDITIONS

53 Rivers and Creeks Values Metrics

Waterway Value Description Score Explanation Very High Almost all expected species are frequently recorded Summed reporting rate of High Many expected species are recorded often riparian bird species expected in that sub-catchment (from Moderate Most expected species occur but some of these are only infrequently recorded minimum of 40 appropriate Low Few of the expected riparian bird species are recorded Birds surveys) Very Low Very few of the expected species are recorded and these in only low numbers Very High All or almost all native freshwater species recorded in catchment likely to be present High Most native freshwater species recorded in catchment likely to be present Based on habitat suitability models for native freshwater Moderate About half the native freshwater species recorded in catchment likely to be present species and survey data Low Few freshwater native species recorded in catchment likely to be present Fish Very Low Very few or no native freshwater species recorded in catchment likely to be present Very High All, or most, of the expected species of frog are found High Many of the expected species of frog are found Species richness (observed to expected) modified to reflect Moderate Not many of the expected species of frog are found survey effort Low Few of the expected species of frog are found Frogs Very Low Very few of the expected species of frog are found Very High All or almost all macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating very good Land Use Macroinvertebrate stream health Response (LUMaR) index is High Most macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating good stream health an observed: expected index, Moderate Some macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present indicating moderate stream that weights the observations health of macroinvertebrate families Low Low number of macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating poor Macroinvertebrates by their sensitivity to forest loss and urbanisation stream health Very Low Very low likelihood of sensitive aquatic macroinvertebrate families being found Very High Very high likelihood that waterways will support platypus Based on habitat suitability High High likelihood that waterways will support platypus models that indicate Moderate Moderate likelihood that waterways will support platypus likelihood that waterways will support platypus Low Low likelihood that waterways will support platypus Platypus Very Low Very low likelihood that waterways will support platypus Very High High or very high naturalness and high or very high uniqueness High Very high naturalness with very low to medium uniqueness or high naturalness and medium to high uniqueness Based on vegetation quality and uniqueness derived from Moderate Medium to high naturalness and very low to low uniqueness, or medium naturalness and available surveys medium to high uniqueness, or very low naturalness and medium uniqueness Vegetation Low Low naturalness and very low to medium uniqueness Very Low Very low naturalness and very low uniqueness

Based on data from Very High Very high level of satisfaction that waterways provide amenity Melbourne Water community High High level of satisfaction that waterways provide amenity perceptions of waterways Moderate Moderate level of satisfaction that waterways provide amenity research on ‘satisfaction with waterways’ in relation to Low Low level of satisfaction that waterways provide amenity Amenity amenity related activities Very Low Very low level of satisfaction that waterways provide amenity Based on data from Very High Very high level of satisfaction that waterways support community connection Melbourne Water community High High level of satisfaction that waterways support community connection perceptions of waterways research on ‘satisfaction Moderate Moderate level of satisfaction that waterways support community connection with waterways’ in relation Low Low level of satisfaction that waterways support community connection Community to community connection Connection activities Very Low Very low level of satisfaction that waterways support community connection

Based on data from Very High Very high level of satisfaction that waterways support recreation Melbourne Water community High High level of satisfaction that waterways support recreation perceptions of waterways Moderate Moderate level of satisfaction that waterways support recreation research on ‘satisfaction with waterways’ in relation to Low Low level of satisfaction that waterways support recreation Recreation recreation activities Very Low Very low level of satisfaction that waterways support recreation Rivers and Creeks Condition Metrics

Key Value Description Score Explanation Directly connected Very High DCI <0.5% minimal or no threat from stormwater imperviousness (DCI) is the High DCI 0.5-2% minor impacts to stream health from stormwater proportion of the impervious surface that is directly Moderate DCI 2-5% stream health is impacted from stormwater connected to a stream Low DCI 5-10% stream health is significantly impacted from stormwater Stormwater through a conventional condition drainage connection Very Low DCI >10% stream health is severely impacted from stormwater Very High Flow recommendations frequently achieved across all climate years, overall hydrological condition is Compliance with considered excellent (81-100%) environmental flow High Flow recommendations often achieved across all climate years, overall hydrological condition is components identified considered good (61-80%) through FLOWS method. Moderate Flow recommendations often achieved in wet and average climate years and occasionally achieved The FLOWS method is a in dry climate years. Overall hydrological condition is considered moderate (41-60%) Water for state based approach for environment assessing flow requirements Low Flow recommendations occasionally achieved, mostly in wet and average climate years but not in of freshwater river systems dry climate years. Overall hydrological condition is considered poor (21-40%) Very Low Flow recommendations rarely achieved, overall hydrological condition is considered very poor (<20%) Very High Riparian vegetation is intact with all structural components present and very high connectivity Description of quality High Riparian vegetation is relatively intact with structural elements present with high connectivity of vegetation relative to Moderate Riparian zone consists of fragmented relevant EVC vegetation Ecological Vegetation Classes Vegetation (EVCs) Low Riparian vegetation is highly modified, fragmented quality Very Low Riparian vegetation is highly modified, predominantly comprising exotic species Very High Very low erosion potential - geomorphically ‘intact’ channels, bedrock control or no known triggers for instability. Primarily source headwater streams. High Low erosion potential - waterways with no known active erosion, some minor impacts from landuse, Potential of channels to local disturbance etc. Also includes waterways that have been substantially modified. erode (deepen and/or Moderate Moderate erosion potential - waterways with no known active deepening, however susceptible to widen). Score is an ‘on widening and bank erosion due to local landuse and disturbance. average’ assessment across Physical Form the sub-catchment Low High erosion potential - waterways with known active deepening and widening, and will continue to be susceptible to erosion processes. Very Low Very high erosion potential - waterways with known active deepening and widening, in highly erodible soils, ongoing disturbance from adjacent landuse and susceptible to erosion processes. Very High Near natural – high quality waterways. Meets SEPP water quality standards Compliance with SEPP Waters High Meets SEPP water quality standards of Victoria environmental Moderate Some evidence of water quality stress. water quality objectives. Water quality EPA Water Quality Index Low Under considerable stress - environmental Very Low Under severe stress Very High Meets primary contact objectives (good) Compliance with SEPP Waters High Meets secondary contact objectives (fair) of Victoria recreational water quality objectives (swimming Moderate NA is considered as primary Low Does not meet secondary contact objectives (poor) Water quality contact) - recreational Very Low NA

Clean Communities Very High Very high proportion of waterways have an absence of litter. very unusual for people to do the Assessment Tool (CCAT) wrong thing with litter methodology provides a High High proportion of waterways have an absence of litter, majority of people do the right thing systematic assessment of Moderate Moderate proportion of waterways impacted by litter, but normally people do the right thing littering behaviour, litter and Litter absence key features of public places, Low Some waterways impacted by litter, low expectation for people to do the right thing including waterfronts Very Low Most waterways highly littered, no expectation for people to do the right thing

Key Value Description Score Explanation Key Value Description Score Explanation Very High 80-100% Very High 80-100% Proportion of waterway Proportion of stream High 60-80% High 60-80% length which has continuous corridors that have vegetation canopy cover Moderate 40-60% accessible waterways Moderate 40-60% within 20m either side of the (paths) on at least one Vegetation Low 20-40% Low 20-40% stream Access side extent Very Low 0-20% Very Low 0-20% Very High 80-100% Very High > 2% High 60-80% Proportion of population High 1-2% Proportion of waterway involved in grants and Moderate 0.5-1% length which is free from Moderate 40-60% citizen science (related to barriers to fish movement Low 20-40% waterways) Low 0.1-0.5% Instream Participation connectivity Very Low 0-20% Very Low < 0.1% Wetlands Values Metrics

Waterway Value Description Score Explanation Incorporates formally recognised significance as bird Very High If 5 metrics meet criteria habitat, presence of significant species and condition of High If 4 metrics meet criteria vegetation Ramsar Site = Yes/Listed Moderate If 2 or 3 metrics meet criteria East Asian-Australasian Flyway Site = Yes/Listed Low If one metric meets criteria Nationally Important Wetlands (DIWA) = Yes/Listed Very Low If vegetation condition is very poor or poor. Birds Supports Significant fauna birds =5 Important Bird Area =5 Wetland vegetation condition – adjusts score up or down Very High Listed species present High TBC Fish community metric TBC Moderate TBC Significant fish = 5 Low TBC Fish Very Low TBC Very High Supports significant amphibian species High As per sub-catchment score Key value status of the sub-catchment unit applied Moderate As per sub-catchment score and adjusted for significant amphibians score Low As per sub-catchment score Frogs Very Low As per sub-catchment score Very High If all 3 metrics meet criteria (Score 5) High If condition = 5 and one other metric meets criteria Based on vegetation quality and uniqueness derived Moderate If Condition = 3 and one other metric meets criteria or condition is 5 from available surveys Low If condition = 3 (moderate) and meets one significance metric Vegetation Very Low If condition = 1 (Very poor or poor)

Wetlands Condition Metrics

Key Value Description Score Explanation Very High Minimal or no threat Minor or no change High N/A Simplified AVIRA threat metric – Changed water Moderate Moderate change regime Low N/A Flow regime Very Low Significant change Very High to 5% reduction in wetland area High >5 to 25% reduction in wetland area AVIRA threat metrics – Reduced wetland area and Moderate >25 to 50% reduction in wetland area altered wetland form Wetlands Low >50 to 75% reduction in wetland area habitat form Very Low >75% reduction in wetland area Very High IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: >17‐ 20 High IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: >13‐ 17 AVIRA threat metric – Moderate IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: >9‐ 13 Degraded buffer vegetation Wetland buffer Low IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: >5‐ 9 condition Very Low IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: 0‐ 5 Very High EVCs present intact, site near reference condition (veg condition excellent) High N/A AVIRA value metric – Wetland Moderate EVCs present show some displacement, site moderately modified (veg condition mod - good) vegetation condition Vegetation Low N/A condition Very Low EVCs present completely displaced and site highly modified/ or no EVCs mapped Very High No change, Low to Very low land use intensity class, adjacent land does not contain Coastal Acid Wetland threat metrics – Sulfate Soils or inland waterway is not at high risk from acid sulfate soils Changed water properties High N/A salinity, Changed water Moderate Medium land use intensity class properties nutrients and Wetland water disturbance of acid sulfate Low N/A soils quality Very Low Changed salinity of wetland, high to Very high land use intensity class, adjacent land has the potential to contain Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils or inland waterway is at high risk from acid sulfate soils Estuaries Values Metrics

Waterway Value Description Score Explanation Incorporates formally recognised significance as bird habitat, Very High If 5 metrics meet criteria presence of significant species and condition of vegetation High If 4 metrics meet criteria Ramsar Site = Yes/Listed Moderate If 2 or 3 metrics meet criteria East Asian-Australasian Flyway Site = Yes/Listed Low If one metric meets criteria Nationally Important Wetlands (DIWA) = Yes/Listed Supports Significant fauna birds =5 Very Low If vegetation condition is very poor or poor. Birds Important Bird Area =5 Wetland vegetation condition – adjusts score up or down Very High Records include listed fish species High Records include estuarine dependent (Seasonal facultative and Seasonal obligate) species Incorporates significant fish, drought refuge and the Estuary Moderate Records of only non-estuarine dependent fish (marine or Entrance Management Support System for Fish Asset Score freshwater) species Fish Low Not used Very Low No records of fish Very High If all 3 metrics meet criteria (Score 5) High If condition = 5 and one other metric meets criteria Incorporates condition and rarity data Significant flora = 5 Moderate If Condition = 3 and one other metric meets criteria or Significant EVC = 5 condition is 5 Vegetation condition Low If condition = 3 (moderate) and meets one significance metric Vegetation Very Low If condition = 1 (Very poor or poor)

Estuaries Condition Metrics

Key Value Description Score Explanation Very High Index score 8-10 AVIRA threat metric: based High Index score 6-8 on level of alteration to flow regimes – magnitude Moderate Index score 4-6 and monthly and seasonal Low Index score 2-4 Flow regime variability Very Low Index score 0-2 Very High No artificial openings or regular dredging or training walls AVIRA threat metric: based High < 25% artificial openings or regular dredging or training walls on characteristics of estuary opening, manipulation Moderate NA required, and potential Low 25-50% artificial openings or regular dredging or training walls Tidal exchange impact on ecology Very Low > 50% artificial openings or regular dredging or training walls Very High No artificial barriers exist AVIRA threat metric: based High 1-25% of estuary affected by artificial barrier presence/absence of a barrier and distance of Moderate 25-50% of estuary affected by artificial barrier barrier downstream from the Low >50% of estuary affected by artificial barrier Longitudinal 'natural’ head of the estuary extent Very Low Artificial barrier can completely block movement of water Very High Very high level water quality - minimal stress AVIRA threat metric: EPA High High level of water quality - some stress water quality guidelines for estuaries, frequency of Moderate Moderate level of water quality and stress algal blooms and excessive Low Poor water quality Water quality macrophyte growth Very Low Very poor water quality Very High Vegetation is intact with all structual component present and very high connectivity AVIRA threat metric: based High Vegetation is relatively intact, most structual component present and high connectivity on condition of fringing Moderate Vegetation consists of fragmented relevant EVCs vegetation and extent of Estuarine invasive plants Low Vegetation is highly modified and fragmented vegetation Very Low Vegetation is highly modified, predominantly comprising invasive species Very High No restrictions - very high level of naturalness AVIRA threat metric: based High Minimal level of restriction - high level of naturalness on level of restriction for estuarine biota that require Moderate Moderate level of restriction connection with adjacent Low High level of restriction - low level of naturalness Estuarine wetland wetlands and floodplains connectivity Very Low Significant level of restriction - very low level of naturalness 58 Getting involved Anyone can get involved by joining Friends, Landcare or other volunteer groups and becoming part of our committed catchment community. To sign-up yourself or organisation as a partner to Waterways are community assets – and this draft Strategy seeks this Strategy visit: to put the community at the centre of waterways management. yoursay.melbournewater.com.au/healthy-waterways It proposes systems to share knowledge and information between communities and stakeholders, and to empower participation and Next steps influence waterways management through capacity building and citizen science. As the Healthy Waterways Strategy moves towards being finalised, we are holding workshops in each catchment to Becoming a committed partner explore what’s next. Caring for our waterways involves community, Traditional Owners, Community input to the draft Healthy Waterways Strategy has councils, developers, land owners and other government agencies. been invaluable in creating collective targets and performance It is only by working together that we can achieve healthy objectives that we all share and want to achieve. Check waterways into the future. www.yoursay.melbournewater.com.au/healthy-waterways People play a major part in ensuring that the Maribyrnong for ways to participate. catchment remains a place of natural beauty and somewhere that We look forward to seeing those interested in celebrating people can enjoy. the work achieved to date, and outlining how the feedback For this Strategy to be effective, it needs collective action. we received informed the writing of the draft Strategy. Working together, we can realise the full value of the We will also discuss how we can continue to work together Maribyrnong’s waterways – economic, cultural, social and to achieve the targets and performance objectives we’ve set environmental. ourselves for healthier waterways in the Maribyrnong catchment.

Maribyrnong - Healthy Waterways Strategy 59 Maribyrnong: Our partners

Our collaborators in the development of the draft Healthy Waterways Strategy for the Maribyrnong catchment have been:

Australian Ecosystems Australian Plant Society, Keilor Plains Avondale Heights Community Garden Brimbank City Council Bunurong Land Council Calibre Consulting City of Melbourne City West Water Clearwater Dalton Consulting Engineers Office of Danny Pearson MP Member for Essendon DELWP E2Designlab Environment First EPA Victoria Federation Horticulture & Environment Macedon Ranges Friends of Holden Flora Reserve Friends of Maribyrnong Valley Friends of Steele Creek Glenelg Hopkins CMA Hume City Council Jacksons Creek EcoNetwork Jacobs Kensington Association Kensington Community Children’s Cooperative Macedon Ranges Shire Council Maribyrnong City Council Maribyrnong River Cruises Melbourne Water Moonee Valley Bicycle Users Group Moonee Valley City Council Municipal Association of Victoria Parks Victoria Port Phillip & Westernport CMA Port Phillip EcoCentre Resilient Melbourne Spiire Stanley Park Committee of Management Stormwater Victoria UDIA University of Melbourne Upper Deep Creek Landcare Network VicRoads Victorian Planning Authority Villawood Properties Werribee River Association Werribee Riverkeeper Western Water Wurundjeri Tribe Land & Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Yarra Valley Water