Maribyrnong STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT SEPTEMBER 2018

Integrated Water Management Forums Acknowledgement of Victoria’s Aboriginal communities

The Victorian Government proudly acknowledges Victoria's Aboriginal communities and their rich culture and pays its respects to their Elders past and present. The government also recognises the intrinsic connection of Traditional Owners to Country and acknowledges their contribution to the management of land, water and resources.

We acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s ﬁ rst peoples and as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and water on which we rely. We recognise and value the ongoing contribution of Aboriginal people and communities to Victorian life and how this enriches us. We embrace the spirit of reconciliation, working towards the equality of outcomes and ensuring an equal voice.

© The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2018 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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This document is also available on the internet at www.delwp.vic.gov.au

Cover photograph Maribyrnong River, Moonee Valley. Photographer: Christian Pearson Integrated Water Management is a collaborative approach to water planning and management that brings together organisations with an interest in all aspects of the water cycle. It has the potential to provide greater value to our communities by identifying and leveraging opportunities to optimise outcomes. Contents

Foreword 1 Acknowledgements 2

Chapter 1 The way forward 3 Introduction 4 Overview 4 What is a Strategic Directions Statement? 4 Enduring collaboration 5 How we’re working together 5 Recognising Aboriginal values in water planning and management 5 Guiding principles for collaboration 6

Chapter 2 IWM in the region 7 Regional context 8 Population 8 Climate change 10 Vision and strategic outcomes 11 Collaboration to develop the shared vision and strategic outcome areas 11 Strategic outcomes for IWM 12 The case for IWM in the Maribyrnong catchment 14

Chapter 3 IWM opportunities 19 Priority Portfolio 20 Impact of IWM opportunities on the Forum’s strategic outcomes 21 IWM opportunities: An overview of projects and strategies 22 Priority Portfolio of IWM opportunities 26 Strategic enablers to put IWM into practice 37 Success stories 38 Continued success through collaboration 40

Appendix 42 Additional IWM opportunities in the Maribyrnong catchment 42 Glossary of terms 43 Foreword

We are witnessing an historic transformation of the Maribyrnong catchment as more people choose to live, work and visit this vibrant and beautiful region of Victoria.

With urban and regional development Integrated water management is As we look forward to beginning the moving swiftly to accommodate not a straightforward process of next phase of this transformational population growth, we too must change, but the benefi ts derived work, I want to sincerely thank move swiftly to work together to from our collective eff orts far the Forum Members and their protect and enhance the natural outweigh the challenges. organisations for contributing their character of the region, most notably considerable experience, skill and the treasured Maribyrnong River, a Together we have refl ected on, time to the development of this unique environment and resource with reviewed and committed to a breadth major blueprint for change in of opportunities in water and land use strong natural and cultural heritage the Maribyrnong catchment. planning, each of which position water signifi cance that provides benefi ts at the heart of community health and to Melbourne’s growing western and wellbeing. As we learn to adapt to a northern suburbs, as well as rural changing climate, these collaborative areas of the upper catchment. endeavours will help our communities Lydia Wilson The Maribyrnong Integrated Water sustainably grow and thrive for a Chair of the Maribyrnong IWM Forum Management Forum brings together more prosperous future. many dedicated and forward- I am delighted to present the looking water industry stakeholders, inaugural Strategic Directions Traditional Owners and Local Statement for the Maribyrnong IWM Government representatives to ensure Forum, the culmination of exceptional our opportunities for continued commitment and hard work of our prosperity don’t come at a cost Forum Members to plan, manage to our iconic natural environments. and deliver water services across this diverse region in a more effi cient and innovative way than we’ve ever done before.

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 1 Acknowledgements

The inaugural Maribyrnong The Forum Area encompasses some IWM Forum acknowledges these of Victoria’s most signiﬁ cant urban Traditional Owners as traditional Integrated Water renewal precincts and greenﬁ eld custodians who have managed land Management Forum was growth areas currently under and water sustainably over thousands convened in Melbourne development. Preservation and of generations and maintain an active in November 2017 with management of the region’s remaining connection to Country. native landscapes will have a positive subsequent Forums impact on the long term health and The Maribyrnong Integrated Water meeting throughout security of the region’s waterways. Management Strategic Directions Statement has been developed by 2018 to discuss and The Forum Area covers the traditional the Maribyrnong Integrated Water prioritise integrated lands of the Kulin Nation, including Management Forum. Members of this water planning and the Wurundjeri people. The Forum Forum include the Chief Executive Area is abundant in Aboriginal cultural Offi cers and Managing Directors management in the sites with a majority of these found of the following organisations: Maribyrnong Forum Area. near waterways. The Maribyrnong

2 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 1 The way forward

An unprecedented opportunity to progress water cycle planning and management in Victoria through collaboration.

Cycling along the Maribyrnong River. Courtesy: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Introduction

Overview The urban water cycle in the Maribyrnong catchment is overseen Integrated Water The Maribyrnong catchment and managed by several agencies. Management encompasses fertile agricultural lands, Enhanced communication and natural grasslands and woodlands collaboration is required to IWM is a collaborative and densely populated urban ensure plans and investments approach to water planning areas. The extent and density of are optimised to enable shared and management that brings urban development across Greater community outcomes. together organisations with Metropolitan Melbourne is impacting an interest in all aspects of on the health of waterways entering This approach is Integrated Water the water cycle. It has the the Maribyrnong River and Port Management (IWM). A central premise potential to provide greater Phillip Bay. Balancing the needs of IWM is the overall acceptance value to our communities by and function of the water cycle that achieving urban liveability and identifying and leveraging as urban development increases resilience is a shared responsibility. opportunities to optimise is a complex challenge requiring The Integrated Water Management outcomes. careful management. Framework for Victoria 2017 is The region’s water sector, local designed to help local governments, governments and Traditional Owners water corporations, catchment What is a Strategic are working collaboratively to plan management authorities, Traditional Directions Statement? and deliver projects and strategies Owners and other organisations work that will enhance the resilience together to ensure that the water This Strategic Directions Statement and liveability of the Maribyrnong cycle effi ciently contributes to the (SDS) articulates the regional catchment and deliver enduring region’s liveability, with communities context, shared vision and environmental, economic and social at the centre of decision-making. water-related outcomes for beneﬁ ts to local communities. the Maribyrnong catchment. To assist with this, IWM Forums have Through ongoing engagement been established across the state with their communities, these It includes a prioritised list of to identify, prioritise and oversee organisations have heard that IWM opportunities developed in the implementation of critical thriving waterways are inextricably collaboration by the Maribyrnong collaborative water opportunities. linked to community identity, amenity, IWM Forum partners. value and sustained economic beneﬁ t Partners of the Maribyrnong for the Maribyrnong catchment. IWM Forum are committing The way in which land use and water their best endeavours to: planning occurs will be fundamental to • Ensure priority opportunities are ensuring these aspirations are realised. progressed in line with the shared vision and strategic outcomes of the Maribyrnong catchment; and

• Support DELWP to progress priority strategic enablers for IWM in Victoria.

It is envisaged that the SDS will be a living document which will be updated to reﬂ ect the Maribyrnong IWM Forum’s current priorities and opportunities.

4 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 1

Enduring collaboration

How we’re working together Collaboration across IWM Forum Recognising Aboriginal partners will ensure balanced values in water planning The Maribyrnong IWM Forum consideration of the complex and management identifi es, coordinates and prioritises economic, environmental, cultural areas that would most benefi t from and community benefi ts and impacts The Maribyrnong IWM Forum is collaborative and place-based water associated with the range of proposed committed to working in partnership management planning and delivery. IWM opportunities. This collaborative with Aboriginal Victorians across process allows for integrated solutions landscapes, communities and The Forum brings together 17 that respond to individual business natural resources. organisations with an interest in needs, as well as the needs of the water cycle management. These The Forum recognises that Traditional broader catchment. organisations include fi ve water Owners throughout the metropolitan corporations, nine local governments, The Maribyrnong IWM Forum partners Melbourne catchments, including the Port Phillip and Westernport will continue to work together to build the Wurundjeri, Bunurong and Catchment Management Authority, inter-organisational trust and develop Wadawurrung people of the Kulin representatives of Traditional productive, enduring relationships to Nation, are unique to Country and Owner interests, the Department realise the shared vision for integrated their involvement in IWM planning will of Environment, Land, Water water management and delivery be specifi c to each planning area. and Planning (DELWP) and the in the Maribyrnong catchment. Victorian Planning Authority. Organisations involved in IWM have Further information on IWM Forum obligations to involve Traditional To ensure IWM is successful and Governance is outlined in the Owners and consider Aboriginal enduring across the region, the Integrated Water Management values in their organisational activities. Maribyrnong IWM Forum partners Framework for Victoria 2017, The Forum will continue to work with commit to promote a collaborative available on the internet at Traditional Owner groups to determine and shared values culture within www.delwp.vic.gov.au. the appropriate approach and level their own organisations and through of involvement in the broader IWM their work with local communities planning process for each Forum Area. and water cycle delivery partners.

The Maribyrnong IWM Forum is governed by an open and transparent IWM planning process.

This process assumes a holistic, whole-of-cycle approach to determine water cycle solutions, considering regulatory accountabilities and service delivery responsibilities.

Each organisation has an important role to play in the decision-making and management of the catchment’s water, resources and assets.

A view of the Macedon Ranges. Courtesy: Creative Commons

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 5 Guiding principles for collaboration

The purpose of the Maribyrnong IWM Forum is to provide a collaborative IWM Forum platform for overseeing, supporting and, where necessary, facilitating water’s contribution to resilience and liveability in Victoria.

Applying an IWM approach, the Forum will: IWM Working Group • Consider the collective community needs in the regional context and develop an overall strategic direction accordingly.

• Complement and feed into existing water and land planning processes, collaborative networks, IWM Project IWM Project IWM Project forums and associations. Group Group Group • Commit best endeavours to facilitate multi-stakeholder initiatives, share organisational expertise and IWM Forum governance structure advance sectoral learnings. Further information on IWM Forum collaboration and planning can be found in Chapter 3 of this SDS. • Respect Traditional Owner rights in water management planning.

• Ensure multiple beneﬁ ts can be delivered to the community and the economy.

• Optimise investment in water management projects and strategies to deliver multiple beneﬁ ts and best community value solutions.

Pipemakers Park. Photographer: Dani De Rose

6 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2 IWM in the region

Understanding why an integrated approach to water planning and management is critical to achieve better economic, environmental, cultural and community outcomes for the Maribyrnong catchment.

Maribyrnong River, Footscray, Victoria. Photographer: Nils Versemann Regional context

The Maribyrnong IWM Forum Area encompasses some of metropolitan Melbourne’s most iconic waterways and landscapes. The catchment covers an area of approximately 1,580 km2, extending from the southern slopes of the Great Dividing Range at Mount Macedon, south to where the Maribyrnong and Yarra Rivers meet upstream from Port Phillip Bay. The Forum Area includes the Moonee Ponds Creek catchment, Organ Pipes National Park and essential transport and business hubs, such as Melbourne Airport and the northern banks of the Port of Melbourne.

The landscape of the Maribyrnong Population Signifi cant densifi cation is predicted catchment varies from agricultural across inner urban areas in the areas, parks and natural woodlands The Maribyrnong IWM Forum Area catchment's south over the next and grasslands, to densely populated has an estimated population of two decades. Large population inner urban areas on Melbourne’s more than 350,000 people and is increases are anticipated in the fringe. While much of the region is predicted to grow to 550,000 by suburbs of Maribyrnong, Footscray, presently devoted to agriculture, 2040. The catchment contains several Sunshine, Greenvale and Arden rapid population growth and urban areas designated as urban and Macaulay. The rate of urban growth development will continue to occur economic growth precincts. Township and development in the region will across the catchment in the populations are expected to rise in increase the amount of impervious coming years. the coming years as greenfi eld areas surface area, such as roads, roofs are developed. Suburbs in the middle and footpaths, generating 25 per The region sustains a range of region of the Maribyrnong catchment cent more stormwater runoff by recreational and commercial activities. such as Hillside and Sunbury South 2050 and impacting the health These include tourism, fi shing and will experience much of this change of the catchment’s waterways agriculture to manufacturing and from rural to urban. and landscapes. heavy industries associated with the Port of Melbourne in the catchment's south.

The Maribyrnong catchment includes areas of signiﬁ cant value where Aboriginal people have lived for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence in the Maribyrnong River Valley demonstrates that Aboriginal people lived in this region for at least 17,000 years. The region is home to one of Australia’s most important archaeological sites, the Sunbury Earth Rings, an area of Aboriginal cultural and ceremonial signiﬁ cance.

Maribyrnong, Victoria. Courtesy: Creative Commons

8 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Maribyrnong

Yarra Werribee

Dandenong

Western Port

POPULATION GROWTH THE REGION 350,000 NOW (2018) 550,000 BY 2040 1,580km2 AGRICULTURE 80% CATCHMENT 57% AREA INCREASE URBAN AREAS 10%

NATURAL VEGETATION 10%

TEMPERATURE AN INCREASE OF CHANGE IN AVERAGE C STORMWATER RUNOFF ANNUAL RAINFALL 1.3˚ BY 2040 DECREASE 25% 2.4% BY 2040 INCREASE BY 2050

Source: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Healthy Waterways Strategy 2013/14-2017/18, Melbourne Water Victoria in future 2016 Strategies for Managing Sports Surfaces in a Drier Climate, July 2007, GHD Guidelines for Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Water Supplies in Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, December 2016 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 9 Climate Change Water Supplies in Victoria 2016. By 2040, average temperatures Below average rainfall recently To meet the challenge of across the Maribyrnong catchment recorded by the Bureau of climate change and prepare are expected to rise by an average Meteorology found that in 2016, Victoria’s water system for of 1.3°C under a medium climate there were just three days a range of possible climate change scenario. This will increase the of rainfall exceeding 20 mm. futures, climate change impact of the urban heat island eff ect mitigation and adaptation Less rainfall over the catchment’s with higher density urban areas and actions will be embedded naturally dry landscape, combined those with low tree canopy coverage in all IWM Forum decisions. with fast-growing urban populations experiencing greater heat vulnerability and agricultural demands, will place than more rural areas. increased pressure on water services Water quality will also be impacted Whilst the region is predicted to in the catchment. by climate change. Extreme dry see more frequent, intense rainfall Climate change will pose a serious conditions will reduce the quality of events that will increase the risk of threat to the wetlands and riverside local water supplies, emphasising fl ooding, the Maribyrnong catchment landscapes of the Maribyrnong the need to plan for and deliver could experience a reduction in catchment. Greater intensity of alternative, fi t for purpose sources. average annual rainfall by 2040, rainfall events will increase riverbank under a medium climate change erosion, stream degradation and scenario, according to the Victorian fl ood risks, aff ecting public and Government's Guidelines for Assessing private property and the health and the Impact of Climate Change on habitats of plant and animal species.

Organ Pipes National Park. Photographer: Greg Brave

10 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Vision and strategic outcomes

The community and environment of the Maribyrnong catchment are healthy, thriving and resilient, and the catchment’s unique characteristics are valued and celebrated.

Collaboration to develop The IWM Forum recognises the The seven primary strategic outcome the shared vision and valuable contribution of these many areas to achieve this vision, as well strategic outcome areas and diverse actors in supporting as the secondary outcome areas a transformative approach to the nested beneath each primary area, The IWM Forum demonstrates a planning and management of our were developed collaboratively robust and transparent process wider water cycle. Each of these by the IWM Forum partners. of collaboration amongst local organisations played a leading role governments and a range of in determining a shared vision for These outcomes acknowledge stakeholders with an interest in water. IWM unique to each of the ﬁ ve the breadth of water plans, metropolitan Melbourne catchments. environmental strategies and Central within this process are the land use plans developed by community values, local interests each partner organisation. and place-based opportunities represented by each Forum Member organisation.

Maribyrnong River. Courtesy: Creative Commons

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 11 IWM strategic outcomes

Outcomes

Safe, secure and aff ordable Eff ective and aff ordable Opportunities are optimised Healthy and valued waterways supplies in an uncertain future wastewater systems to manage existing and future and marine environments ﬂ ood risks and impacts

A secure, climate resilient Manages public health and Community and property Management of the catchment water supply for community environmental expectations are resilient to local fl ood risk is integrated and includes and environment (including consideration of the whole water cycle Eff ectively managed sewerage specifi c vulnerable groups) Fit for purpose use of a diverse system achieves best whole- Impacts from urban, peri urban, range of water supplies of-community outcomes Flood protection of natural commercial, industrial and and resources for human and minimises or avoids and built assets in urban areas agricultural activities are mitigated consumption, ecological, cultural long term costs (operational meets community expectations to protect our waterways, purposes, recreational amenity, and environmental) and standards with respect groundwater and the bay and peri urban agriculture to cost and impact risk Optimised and eff ectively Waterways across the catchment Water supply and network managed onsite Development in the Maribyrnong are managed for their health and delivery considers current domestic system catchment recognises and the health of coastal and marine and future aff ordability mitigates exacerbated ecosystems in Port Phillip Bay Waste-to-resource downstream fl ooding risks Water quality meets opportunities are maximised Improve health through reduced regulatory standards and Planning and project design nutrient, sediment and fl ow community expectation Asset planning considers consider climate change in discharges to waterways eff ective renewal planning, developing impact scenarios and Port Phillip Bay Water supply meets demand including aff ordability and life for extreme events with an effi cient balance, cycle costs and responsibilities Waterways across the catchment including recognition are managed for long term and promotion of water ecological resilience, balancing conversation by the the impact of climate change residential, commercial and needs for regional fl ood and industrial community mitigation, agriculture, industry and urbanisation

Waterways are critical corridors for the movement of ﬂ ora and fauna, and for human recreation and well being

Environmental ﬂ ows for waterway health are a key management goal

Traditional Owner and Aboriginal values, knowledge and practices are integrated and protected in waterway management and planning

12 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

The Maribyrnong catchment is seeking to achieve seven strategic outcomes through IWM. Each of these will have Low-emissionLow-emission sosolutionslutions a signiﬁ cant role in shaping the liveability, prosperity and IWMIWM opportunities that minimise the rereleaselease resilience of Victoria’s cities and towns. These outcome ofof greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions will areas provide a guide to identify and prioritise the various bebe considered by the Forum as solutions areare evaevaluatedluated for impimplementation.lementation. IWM opportunities included in Chapter 3 of this SDS.

Healthy and valued landscapes Community and Traditional Owner values Jobs, economic beneﬁ t and innovation are reﬂ ected in place-based planning

Active and passive recreation Diverse urban landscapes that refl ect Jobs and economic growth is supported by water local conditions and history (including sustainable economic benefi t) are supported by water Linear water related assets Forum partners have raised the are multipurposed to enhance engagement and water literacy IWM Forum delivered projects leverage community connectivity of the community, empowering innovative planning and operation them to understand and infl uence Urban landscapes retain moisture planning processes Agricultural production is supported for cooler, greener cities and towns so that green wedge and hinterland in a changing climate Local water-related risks and areas are fi nancially sustainable and issues are understood by the remain or return to viability Waterways and coastal environments existing and growing community are accessible as valuable open space IWM investments (resourcing and/or Projects incorporate Aboriginal funding) are understood for the benefi ts Landscapes are recognised and Values from the earliest stages they are achieving, not only seen for cost managed for their contribution to ecological habitat corridors Cultural, social, ecological and other Traditional Owner and Aboriginal Victorian aspirations that the community have consultation, engagement, employment Diverse and abundant native animals communicated to IWM partners have been and economic development has been and plants are supported through incorporated into the project objectives implemented (Water for Victoria 2016) connected habitats within and along waterways and across landscapes. Water cycle decision making for place based projects provide a positive Urban development recognises and long-lasting legacy for the community protects the unique geomorphology of the Maribyrnong and its tributaries

Agricultural and rural landscapes are recognised as part of the catchment system

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 13 The case for IWM in the Maribyrnong catchment

Over the coming years, urban growth and climate change will cause signifi cant change in the Safe, secure Eff ective and region. This will put pressure on the and aff ordable aff ordable Maribyrnong catchment’s water cycle supplies in wastewater and resources, impacting urban and an uncertain systems rural landscapes and communities, future riverine environments and local industries. Translating community objectives for water management into practice will involve working across Five water corporations oversee Much of the Maribyrnong organisational boundaries to achieve water supply for the Maribyrnong catchment’s urban wastewater is the following strategic outcomes. catchment. These include treated at the Western Treatment These outcomes are aligned with Melbourne Water, Western Water, Plant, operated by Melbourne City West Water, Southern Rural Water and located in Werribee. those refl ected in the strategic plans Water and Yarra Valley Water. and environmental strategies of Wastewater generated by the the Forum's partner organisations. The catchment’s Rosslynne large outer townships through Reservoir, located on Jacksons the catchment fl ow to recycled Creek, provides drinking water to water treatment plants operated the Macedon Ranges, Gisborne by Western Water. These include and Sunbury, as well as water for facilities in Gisborne, Riddells irrigation to agricultural lands, Creek, Romsey and Sunbury which including the Keilor Market Gardens. is the largest recycled water The Greenvale Reservoir supplies plant in the region. These plants water from the Melbourne water operate to limits set by Victoria’s supply system to the north Environment Protection Authority and western suburbs of the (EPA). Signifi cant upgrades to the Maribyrnong catchment. Sunbury plant are underway to provide improved recycled water Supply and demand modelling quality and increase treatment for townships in the north of the capacity by more than 50 per cent catchment indicate the risk of a to accommodate the population water supply shortfall in the future. growth anticipated for the region. There is an opportunity to enhance Changes to the water cycle driven the management of recycled water by projected population growth to mitigate impacts of increased and climate change means more volumes discharged to waterways. water will be needed across the catchment for urban, agricultural The provision and effi cacy of and environmental fl ow purposes. wastewater management services There is an opportunity now to vary across the catchment. plan for the provision of secure In some rural townships, such as water supplies for communities Bulla and Macedon, unsewered and industries into the future. development poses a threat to the environment. Poor-performing on-site domestic wastewater systems have the potential to pollute waterways, impacting public and environmental health.

14 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Opportunities are optimised to manage existing and future ﬂ ood risks and impacts

Parts of the catchment are prone The Maribyrnong River collects water today cannot always cope with to riverine fl ooding during periods from its tributaries in the higher the increased capacity during of heavy rain, particularly areas reaches of the catchment and large rainfall events. nearest the Maribyrnong River, such channels it downstream toward Port as the suburbs of Maribyrnong and Phillip Bay, where fl atter terrain can There is a need to investigate Moonee Valley. Flash fl ooding can cause the river to overfl ow its banks. improved fl oodwater storage also occur in parts of the catchment. Residential, industrial and commercial capabilities in the Maribyrnong The suburb of Arden Macaulay, just properties are located along the catchment, particularly in developing north of Melbourne’s CBD, also sits in urban centres in Brimbank, Hume low-lying land subject to inundation. Maribyrnong River fl oodplain where and the Macedon Ranges, where Flood risk management strategies for disruptive fl oods occur on average stormwater harvesting and areas prone to inundation are central every 10 to 20 years. Low lying areas, management could reduce the risk to the catchment’s current and future including Moonee Ponds and Seddon, and costs of intense rainfall events. planning and development. are particularly susceptible to fl oodwater damage to property A holistic, whole-of-catchment and infrastructure. approach to fl ood planning in the Maribyrnong region will help Urban drainage systems predating mitigate the impact of upstream the high-density development fl ood events in downstream areas characteristic of the lower catchment of the catchment.

Homes along the Maribyrnong River. Courtesy: Creative Commons

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 15 Healthy and valued waterways and marine environments

The Maribyrnong catchment including the Black Swan, Australian Urban stormwater represents one contains an array of signifi cant and Darter, herons, cormorants and of the most signifi cant threats to biologically diverse waterways and the Growling Grass Frog, which is the health of the Maribyrnong River, wetlands ranging from expansive presently threatened by a range where nutrients and metals from rivers with variable fl ows to small of issues, including long periods of industrial inputs have impacted ephemeral creeks and streams. drought, poor water quality and vegetation and aquatic species. pollution. Returning locally extinct Stormwater discharge to Taylors The Maribyrnong River is the largest and vulnerable species to the Creek in the catchment’s north has waterway in the catchment and the environment will be a signifi cant altered the nature of that waterway second major river in metropolitan challenge across the catchment. and contributed to the defoliation Melbourne. It originates in the of native River Red Gums along Macedon Ranges and fl ows for The predicted increase in the the water’s edge. 40 km to Port Phillip Bay. Other frequency and intensity of rain notable waterways in the events, combined with greater Highly erodible riverbanks and Maribyrnong catchment include urban stormwater generation and escarpments in the valleys of the Stony Creek, Moonee Ponds Creek, disruption to overland fl ow paths Maribyrnong catchment risk further Steeles Creek, as well as Deep Creek, from urban and infi ll development, damage from increased stormwater Jacksons Creek, Riddells Creek will impact on water quality and runoff and other climate change and Emu Creek. the ecological health of waterways challenges, endangering the in the region. ecological health and quality The Maribyrnong River estuary of environments across the connects to the Yarra River before The increased frequency of intense entire region. entering Port Phillip Bay. Most of the rain events predicted for the catchment’s water quality is fair, with region, combined with greater There is an opportunity to better conditions generally found in urban stormwater generation and incorporate improved planning and the upper reaches away from dense disruption to overland fl ow paths waterway protection controls as the urban areas and heavy industries. from urban and infi ll development, catchment continues to urbanise. Highly elevated salinity, phosphorus has impacted water quality and and turbidity levels are consistent ecological health. in the mid and lower reaches of the catchment’s waterways. Chemical pollutants have been noted in some of the Maribyrnong catchment’s marine species, including bream, eel and other fi nfi sh, prompting recommended consumption limitations by the Victorian Chief Health Offi cer.

Combined with the drying out of the catchment, declining water quality and changes in stream ﬂ ows will continue to impact the health of waterways and the ecosystems they support.

Notable animal species at home in the catchment’s forested waterways include the Yarra pygmy perch, crabs and populations of platypus. Wetland habitats throughout the Maribyrnong catchment also support Small crustaceans, such as crabs, live in the Maribyrnong River. various water birds and frog species, Courtesy: Creative Commons

16 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Healthy and valued landscapes

The landscape of the Maribyrnong Pipemakers Park on the banks of The management of weeds along catchment varies greatly from the Maribyrnong River and the waterways is a priority area of agricultural areas, escarpment Woodlands Historical Park, located improvement in the Maribyrnong shrublands and natural woodlands in the upper Moonee Ponds Creek catchment. An estimated 10,000 and grasslands, to densely catchment, provide important hectares of agricultural land in populated and expanding urban recreational and ecological value the catchment is aff ected by the areas accounting for around for the region, linking creeks and Serrated Tussock, one of Australia’s 10 per cent of the region. rivers with natural reserves. worst invasive plant species.

The catchment covers an area An increase in native vegetation is The Maribyrnong catchment of approximately 1,580 km2, and sought at the catchment scale, with continues to address challenges the majority of this, 80 per cent, is eff orts to reverse post-development on the water cycle from increased devoted to farming and grazing die back in developed areas where pollution due to stormwater land. A further 10 per cent of the high heat vulnerability is a challenge. ﬂ ows and rapid urbanisation region has retained its natural These eff orts include rehabilitating and agricultural activities which vegetation. Some of Victoria’s wetlands, establishing green impacts the health of its urban last remaining areas of native corridors through the catchment’s and rural landscapes. grassland are found here. densely populated urban areas and reclaiming underused arid In parts of the catchment harvested River Red Gums and Melbourne parklands for passive recreation. stormwater and recycled water is Yellow Gum trees are present in used to improve landscape values much of the catchment. In lower through irrigating recreational and reaches, large urban parks including commercial sites, including parks and sporting ﬁ elds.

Community and Traditional Owner values are reﬂ ected in place-based planning

The Maribyrnong catchment area holds including the Wurundjeri people who circular earth structures believed to a wide range of values for Victorians, have lived in the Maribyrnong River be the site of Aboriginal ceremonial including agricultural, tourism, cultural valley for at least 40,000 years. More activities. heritage and recreation on and near than 5,800 Aboriginal cultural sites the water’s edge. have been recorded in the Maribyrnong In recent decades, extensive land catchment, with a majority of these clearing for development along The Maribyrnong River supports many found near waterways. The Sunbury waterways and rural areas has recreational activities and water sports, Rings Cultural Landscape along reduced the benefi cial cooling including rowing and kayaking, and Jacksons Creek is one of Australia’s eff ects provided by native vegetation riverside parks, walking tracks and most important archaeological in the catchment. The increase of cycling paths are well used and loved areas. The region contains several impervious surface area has led to a by local communities and visitors alike. signifi cant and rare cultural, heritage higher risk of fl ood damage during and environmental features, including periods of heavy rainfall. The catchment encompasses the the Sunbury Earth Rings. The area Traditional lands of the Kulin Nation, Continued… is characterised by three shallow,

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 17 Local governments are working upper reaches of the catchment, representatives from local and state alongside their communities to caring for the environment along the government, community groups, mitigate fl ood risk and reduce the Jacksons Creek and its tributaries, not-for-profi ts, businesses and urban heat island eff ect through the including Riddells Creek. The Upper research organisations to improve creation of green and connected Deep Creek Landcare Network the Moonee Ponds Creek area corridors. There is an opportunity to perform a similar role in this tributary through a range of initiatives. integrate planning for parks, of the Maribyrnong catchment. Each playgrounds and wetlands with of these groups are active in riparian Other cross-government initiatives incoming development, particularly planting and land management, that seek to elevate community in key growth areas, including the waterway protection and community priorities and outcomes, as well as Maribyrnong Defence Site, which will education and advocacy for maintain a relationship with the create approximately 3,000 new healthy and thriving waterways. Maribyrnong IWM Forum initiatives, homes over an area of 127 hectares. include Greening the West and The Moonee Ponds Creek the Metropolitan Partnerships. Communities and advocacy Collaboration Project seeks to The Maribyrnong catchment groups concerned with water cycle integrate planning and management is divided across the Western, outcomes include the Friends of the of the Moonee Ponds Creek Northern and Inner Metropolitan Maribyrnong Valley, Friends of Steeles catchment, a sub-catchment Partnerships, an initiative that brings Creek, Friends of Moonee Ponds within the wider Maribyrnong together community and business Creek and Friends of Stony Creek. catchment and one of Melbourne’s representatives with state and local The Jacksons Creek Eco-Network, a most urbanised and modifi ed creek governments to identify priorities volunteer network of several Landcare systems. Co-ordinated by Melbourne for jobs, services and infrastructure and Friends Groups, is active in the Water, the project brings together within the region.

Jobs, economic beneﬁ t and innovation

The Maribyrnong catchment To the west of the Maribyrnong in the south and agriculture in the covers a major growth corridor in catchment, planning for the north are contributing economies Victoria comprising several areas Western Irrigation Network (WIN) is for the Maribyrnong catchment. designated for signifi cant population underway to provide an alternative In the coming years, the Sunshine and economic growth. Key urban water scheme for the Werribee National Employment and Innovation renewal precincts include Footscray, catchment's agricultural region, with Cluster (NEIC) and the Moonee Valley Maribyrnong and Arden Macaulay. benefi ts extending across the two Racecourse area will undergo major The Sunbury Growth Corridor is catchments. Excess recycled water infrastructure investment, resulting in anticipated to see up to 35,000 generated in the both Werribee and further job creation and economic new dwellings constructed, bringing Maribyrnong catchments will be benefi t at the catchment scale. as many as 22,000 new jobs to the available for re-use to support high region. Populations in these growing value agriculture in the Werribee As urban infi ll increases, managing areas will place greater pressure catchment. Led by Western Water, the impacts of historical industrial on the catchment’s water systems the WIN will support future recycled and port activities that have and the security of supply water customer supply to enable contaminated waterways and to homes and businesses. economic growth and liveability nearby land in the catchment in the west. remains a challenge. The region contains state and nationally signifi cant infrastructure Notable tourism and commercial Secure water supplies, adequate and commercial industries, activities at the Melbourne water management infrastructure including Melbourne’s Essendon Showgrounds, Moonee Valley including water, wastewater and Tullamarine airports, major Racecourse and Flemington and stormwater to support the road transport links and the Port Racecourse are signifi cant for the Maribyrnong catchment’s key of Melbourne’s international and catchment. Australia’s most famous industries will be critical to its domestic shipping industries. horse race, the Melbourne Cup, takes continued economic growth place here annually. Manufacturing and success.

18 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Chapter 3 IWM opportunities

A portfolio of priority IWM projects and strategies that the Maribyrnong catchment’s collaborative partners have committed their best endeavours to progress.

The Maribyrnong River at Flemington Racecourse. Courtesy: Aerometrex Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 19 Priority Portfolio

The following portfolio of priority projects and strategies represents a suite of IWM opportunities for which the Maribyrnong IWM Forum’s collaborative partners are committed to progressing within the next 12 to 18 months.

The status of each IWM opportunity The opportunities within acknowledge By co-delivering a range of water included in the Priority Portfolio refl ects a number of existing metropolitan- planning and management initiatives, the phase of work to be undertaken wide strategies and plans, such as the the Maribyrnong IWM Forum seeks in this time period. Melbourne Water Systems Strategy to build on the strengths of the and the draft Healthy Waterways community, the water sector and Additional opportunities that require Strategy 2018, as well as the clear governments to achieve better further assessment are included and measurable targets identifi ed in value and long term shared in the Appendix of this SDS. the existing strategies. Targets may benefi ts for the region. include alternative water use and In developing this portfolio, the stormwater harvesting and infi ltration. The Maribyrnong IWM Forum presents collaborative governance of the Further, climate change mitigation an unparalleled opportunity for Forum recognises the water goals, including low emission IWM these organisations to build lasting cycle complexities of the region solutions and those that support partnerships across sectors and and considers the balance of urban cooling and greening, will be geographical boundaries to enhance, outcomes, opportunities, roles considered by the Forum during the accelerate and generate greater and responsibilities for Forum evaluation of projects and strategies. visibility for water cycle initiatives members and their communities. that will improve Victoria’s resilience The IWM Forum recognises that the and liveability. A Forum Area (or catchment-wide) contribution of this Priority Portfolio IWM Strategy is yet to be developed, to the seven strategic outcomes, however the Maribyrnong IWM Forum including the targets identifi ed in the has agreed to initiate development of existing metropolitan-wide strategies, a strategy over the next 12-18 months. has not yet been quantifi ed. It is the intention of the Forum to consider The projects and strategies listed a targeted evaluation of these IWM within the Priority Portfolio have opportunities where the Forum agrees not been guided by an existing this is necessary. This work may occur IWM Strategy, rather they were in tandem with the development developed based on the experience of a catchment-wide strategy. and knowledge of the Forum The Forum acknowledges that this is Members, and in consideration a dynamic list of IWM opportunities of their potential to impact on and is subject to further assessment the seven strategic outcomes for by the IWM Forum Members. The IWM sought for the Maribyrnong organisations listed as collaborative region. In addition, consideration partners in the IWM Priority Portfolio was given to the urgency of taking have been identifi ed by the Forum such actions, particularly where Members as important stakeholders opportunities could be lost if no to progress the individual initiative. action was taken, as well as the level For initiatives in initial stages of of commitment demonstrated by development, additional stakeholders partner organisations to progress IWM may be included as the project initiatives over the next 12-18 months. progresses.

20 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Impact of IWM opportunities on the Forum's strategic outcomes

Arden Macaulay IWM Plan Brimbank Water Sensitive Urban Design Asset Audit Brimbank Water Sensitive Urban Design Prioritisation Strategy Bulla IWM Plan Business Case Development for Moonee Ponds Creek Channel Naturalisation Copernicus Way Reserve Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting Scheme Hume Stormwater Harvesting Projects IWM Strategy for the Maribyrnong Catchment Macedon Ranges Southern Region IWM Study Maribyrnong Defence Site IWM Plan Maribyrnong Valley Nature Links Moonee Ponds Creek Catchment Modelling and Analysis Potable Water Supply Augmentation for Western Growth Riddells Creek Recycled Water Plant Offsets River Red Gums Health along Taylors Creek Rosehill Park Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting Sunbury IWM Plan Sunshine NEIC IWM Strategy Western Irrigation Network Western Water’s Development IWM Plan Guidance Westgate Tunnel Water Management Opportunities

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 Relative impact on strategic outcomes (highest total impact = 1)

Safe, secure and affordable supplies in an uncertain future Effective and affordable wastewater systems Opportunities are optimised to manage existing and future risks and impacts Healthy and valued waterways and marine environments Healthy and valued landscapes Community and Traditional Ownner values are reﬂected in place-based planning Jobs, economic beneﬁt and innovation

Safe, secure and aff ordable supplies in 1 an uncertain future 0.9 0.8

Jobs, economic beneﬁ t 0.7 Eff ective and aff ordable and innovation 0.6 wastewater systems 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0

Community and Opportunities are Traditional Owner optimised to manage values are reﬂ ected in existing and future place-based planning ﬂ ood risks and impacts

Healthy and valued Healthy and valued landscapes waterways and marine environments

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 21 IWM opportunities: An overview of projects and strategies

IWM opportunity Strategic outcomes Location Spatial scale

Arden Macaulay IWM Plan Arden Macaulay Urban renewal

Brimbank Water Sensitive Brimbank Sub-catchment Urban Design Asset Audit City Council

Brimbank WSUD Brimbank Sub-catchment Prioritisation Strategy City Council

Bulla IWM Plan Bulla Sub-catchment

Business Case Development Strathmore North Sub-catchment for Moonee Ponds Creek Channel Naturalisation

Copernicus Way Reserve Keilor Downs Sub-catchment Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting Scheme

Hume Stormwater Hume City Council Sub-catchment Harvesting Projects

IWM Strategy for the Maribyrnong Forum area Maribyrnong Catchment Forum Area

Macedon Ranges Gisborne, Riddells Sub-catchment Southern Region IWM Study Creek, Romsey

Maribyrnong Defence Site Maribyrnong Urban renewal IWM Plan

Maribyrnong Valley Maribyrnong Sub-catchment Nature Links catchment

Moonee Ponds Creek Catchment Moonee Ponds Sub-catchment Modelling and Analysis Catchment

Potable Water Supply Western Water Inter-forum Augmentation for Western Growth Service Region

Riddells Creek Recycled Water Jacksons Creek Sub-catchment Plant Off sets

River Red Gums Health Taylors Creek Sub-catchment along Taylors Creek

The status of each IWM opportunity included in the Priority Portfolio reﬂ ects the phase of work to be undertaken in this time period.

Shade scale Level of shading refers to the degree of impact the IWM opportunity has on each strategic outcome area. Dark shading represents highest impact.

Low High

22 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Collaborative partners Status

City West Water, Melbourne City Council, Melbourne Water, South East Water, Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (LCAC), Wurundjeri Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal Corporation (L&CCHCAC)*, Victorian Planning Authority (VPA)

Brimbank City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Bunurong LCAC

Hume City Council, Melbourne Water, Western Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Melbourne Water, Moonee Valley City Council, Moreland City Council, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA, Friends of Moonee Ponds Creek and support from members of the Moonee Ponds Catchment Collaboration

Brimbank City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Hume City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC

Maribyrnong Forum partner organisations

Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Melbourne Water, Western Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA

City West Water, Maribyrnong City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA

Port Phillip and Westernport CMA, Melbourne Water, City West Water, Western Water, Parks Victoria, Councils, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Lead West, Melbourne Airport, Landcare and Friends of Groups

Melbourne Water, Cities of Melbourne, Moreland, Moonee Valley, Hume and other members of the Moonee Ponds Catchment Collaboration, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA

Western Water, Melbourne Water, Southern Rural Water, Bunurong LCAC, Wadawurrung, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Western Water, Port Phillip and Westernport CMA, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA

Brimbank City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Hume City Council

* The Wurundjeri Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal Corporation will remain informed of progress related to this IWM opportunity.

Project opportunity status

Concept & feasibility Business case Detailed design Implementation Commission Beneﬁ t realisation

Strategy opportunity status

Concept Commitment Prepare draft Consult & ﬁ nalise Implement Evaluate

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 23 IWM opportunities: An overview of projects and strategies

IWM Opportunity Strategic Outcomes Location Spatial Scale

Rosehill Park Wetland and East Keilor Sub-catchment Stormwater Harvesting

Sunbury IWM Plan Sunbury Growth area Growth Area

Sunshine NEIC IWM Strategy Albion, Sunshine Urban renewal and St Albans

Western Irrigation Network Gisborne, Inter-forum Sunbury, Melton, Bacchus Marsh

Western Water’s Development Western Water Greenﬁ eld IWM Plan Guidance Service Region Subdivision

Westgate Tunnel Water Maribyrnong Sub-catchment Management Opportunities

The status of each IWM opportunity included in the Priority Portfolio reﬂ ects the phase of work to be undertaken in this time period.

Shade scale Level of shading refers to the degree of impact the IWM opportunity has on each strategic outcome area. Dark shading represents highest impact.

Low High

24 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Collaborative Partners Status

Moonee Valley City Council, Melbourne Water, City West Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Western Water, Melbourne Water, Hume City Council, VPA, Southern Rural Water (advisory), Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC

City West Water, Brimbank City Council, Melbourne Water, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA

Western Water, Moorabool Shire Council, Melton City Council, Hume City Council, City West Water, Southern Rural Water (advisory), Melbourne Water, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Western Water, Moorabool Shire Council, Melton City Council, Hume City Council, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Melbourne Water, VPA, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

City West Water, Maribyrnong City Council, City of Melbourne, Melbourne Water, VPA, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

* The Wurundjeri Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal Corporation will remain informed of progress related to this IWM opportunity.

Project opportunity status

Concept & Feasibility Business case Detailed design Implementation Commission Beneﬁ t Realisation

Strategy opportunity status

Concept Commitment Prepare Draft Consult & Finalise Implement Evaluate

Wild Starlings ﬂ y over wheat crops, Sunbury. Photographer: Nicole Patience

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 25 Priority Portfolio of IWM opportunities

All IWM opportunities included in collaboration and visibility through Some projects and strategies in the the Priority Portfolio demonstrate the IWM Forum process and will Priority Portfolio off er unique additional value for the Maribyrnong catchment. contribute substantial benefi ts to the values. These include the potential Maribyrnong region as a whole, or to be accelerated by collaboration All projects and strategies specifi cally to its iconic natural assets, and visibility through the IWM Forum demonstrate the potential to generate including the Maribyrnong River and its process; the potential to generate important cross-organisational tributaries, and Port Phillip Bay. Further, new, or enhance existing, cross- learnings and capacity-building all of these IWM opportunities will organisational collaboration; and benefi ts for current and future IWM benefi t from additional resources the ability to be a mechanism for initiatives. All of these projects and and support through the IWM Forum. further IWM advocacy and policy strategies will be enhanced by innovation. Unique values are indicated in the project description.

ACTION 1

Arden Macaulay IWM Plan

Located in the City of Melbourne, the Arden Macauley area will undergo signiﬁ cant urban renewal to accommodate population and economic growth over the next 30 years. Status

Supported by the development of a new train station and public open space, thousands Location Arden Macaulay of new residents and employment opportunities are anticipated for the area. This project will explore urban renewal options using IWM approaches to identify how urban water Collaborative City West Water, Melbourne management can be best achieved in this precinct. The project will focus on ﬂ ood Partners City Council, Melbourne Water, South East Water, management, supporting liveability and the provision of open space and amenity Bunurong Land Council along the Moonee Ponds Creek. Aboriginal Corporation (LCAC), Wurundjeri Land and Unique value: Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal This strategy will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Corporation (L&CCHCAC)*, Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Victorian Planning Authority cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM (VPA) advocacy and policy innovation. Spatial scale Urban renewal

ACTION 2

Brimbank Water Sensitive Urban Design Asset Audit

Brimbank City Council will conduct an audit of WSUD assets, including wetlands, to ensure they are performing as per design intent. This includes both physical and structural Status asset elements. Maintenance schedules informed by audit results will be developed Location Brimbank City Council and may assist other Councils in ensuring their assets are performing at their optimum. Collaborative Brimbank City Council, Unique value: Partners Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Bunurong LCAC Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Spatial scale Sub-catchment cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

26 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

ACTION 3

Brimbank Water Sensitive Urban Design Prioritisation Strategy

Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Hume City Councils undertook a pilot study to develop Status a methodology and develop a multi-criteria framework to prioritise locations for stormwater interventions. Brimbank has subsequently undertaken designs for three Location City of Brimbank stormwater harvesting installations and has expanded the assessment to include Brimbank City Council, the Sunshine NEIC. Brimbank proposes to build on this work to undertake assessment Collaborative Partners Melbourne Water, of all sub-catchments within the municipality to develop a prioritised list of projects Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, for construction, subject to a budget being available. There is potential for this work Bunurong LCAC to be expanded across the Maribyrnong catchment. Spatial scale Sub-catchment Unique value:

This strategy will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 4

Bulla IWM Plan

The township of Bulla abuts a section of Deep Creek which is in relatively good condition Status and supports platypus and growling grass frog populations. But the health of Deep Creek is under threat from pollution from domestic wastewater systems and Bulla’s main Location Bulla stormwater drain. Localised ﬂ ooding issues from this main stormwater drain also threaten Hume City Council, Deep Creek. An IWM plan could identify opportunities to address water cycle issues in Collaborative Partners Melbourne Water, Western Bulla in a holistic way that would reduce the need for multiple infrastructure projects and Water, Wurundjeri interventions, ultimately providing value to the community, such as improved amenity, L&CCHCAC* better ecological condition of the creek and reduced risk from ﬂ ood. Spatial scale Sub-catchment Unique value:

This strategy may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

Brimbank Park. Photographer: Christian Pearson

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 27 ACTION 5

Business Case Development for Moonee Ponds Creek Channel Naturalisation Status This project was identiﬁ ed by the Moonee Ponds Catchment Collaboration as an opportunity to return the northernmost part of the Moonee Ponds Creek concrete channel Location Strathmore North to a natural land form. The naturalised channel is envisaged to facilitate more pedestrian Collaborative Melbourne Water, Moonee access points, connectivity and recreational facilities, as well as increase community Partners Valley City Council, use of a linear park along the creek. This project would include complementary work Moreland City Council, on permeable pavement in streets and other water sensitive urban design interventions. Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, It will improve biodiversity and habitat creation and include citizen science and VPA, Friends of Moonee education opportunities. The ﬁ rst phase of the project is to develop a business case. Ponds Creek and support from members of the Unique value: Moonee Ponds Catchment Collaboration

This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Spatial scale Sub-catchment Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 6

Copernicus Way Reserve Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting Scheme

The Copernicus Way Reserve Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting Scheme aims to Status improve the sustainability, resilience and liveability of a key Brimbank suburban park. An integrated park and playground with a wetland will be created. The wetland will Location Keilor Downs support biodiversity and provide treated stormwater for parkland irrigation. The design includes a playground, footpath and picnic facilities, plus a large grassed area terracing Collaborative Brimbank City Council, Partners Melbourne Water, down to the wetland, providing opportunities to explore the water’s edge. This new Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC* water sensitive parkland will boost liveability and wellbeing within the local community. Spatial scale Sub-catchment Unique value:

This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration.

ACTION 7

Hume Stormwater Harvesting Projects

This project will investigate the suitability of several potential stormwater harvesting sites Status across the Hume City Council area, including the Jacana Wetland. Melbourne Water will work with Hume City Council to explore whether stormwater harvesting can address a Location Hume City Council post-development die back in remnant River Red Gums encountered in Malcolm Creek caused by excess stormwater infl ows into the creek. Key fi ndings may also apply to other Collaborative Hume City Council, Partners Melbourne Water, parts of the Maribyrnong catchment, such as the Lindum Vale development and Taylors Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC Creek. Over the next 12 months, forum partners will conduct master planning to prioritise opportunities and refi ne concept plans. Spatial scale Sub-catchment

Unique value:

This project demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration.

28 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Wild Eastern Grey Kangaroo drinking from dam, Sunbury. Photographer: Nicole Patience ACTION 8

IWM Strategy for the Maribyrnong Catchment

An IWM Strategy at the catchment-scale will guide the Maribyrnong Forum Members Status to eff ectively contribute to achieving the Forum’s vision and strategic outcomes. The Forum will ﬁ rst deﬁ ne a plan to deliver an IWM strategy in collaboration Location Maribyrnong Forum Area with all Maribyrnong IWM Forum Members and Working Group members. The plan will be executed by the Forum and supported by agreed governance. Collaborative Maribyrnong Forum partner Partners organisations

Unique value: Spatial scale Forum area

This strategy will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum process. It also demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration.

ACTION 9

Macedon Ranges Southern Region IWM Study

Preserving the health of the upper Maribyrnong River tributaries is essential for the health Status of the entire Maribyrnong River system. These upper tributaries are home to a range of ﬂ ora and fauna and hold unique Traditional Owner and recreational values. Protecting these Location Gisborne, Riddells Creek, values is critical, particularly in the context of climate change and population growth. Romsey Macedon Ranges Shire Developed in collaboration with the community, this study will deﬁ ne the scale of Collaborative Partners Council, Melbourne Water, the challenge in the upper Maribyrnong River system and outline a suite of water Western Water, Wurundjeri cycle management solutions to address these challenges. The outcome of this L&CCHCAC*, VPA study will generate IWM infrastructure recommendations and will be used to Spatial scale Sub-catchment inform Development IWM Plans.

Unique value:

This project demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

Macedon Ranges. Photographer: Greg Brave

30 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

ACTION 10

Maribyrnong Defence Site IWM Plan

The Maribyrnong Defence Site, a 127-hectare parcel of federal land with Maribyrnong River frontage, will be redeveloped into a high density residential and mixed-use community Status that will include approximately 3,000 dwellings, 30,000 square metres of non-residential ﬂ Location Maribyrnong oor space and new public open space. This project will use an IWM approach to explore City West Water, the use of alternative supplies and provide a basis to maximise the beneﬁt of infrastructure Collaborative Partners Maribyrnong City Council, decisions that will deliver an improved waterway service, cost savings, increased resilience, Melbourne Water, and maximise community value from water cycle servicing. Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, VPA Unique value: Spatial scale Urban renewal This strategy demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 11

Maribyrnong Valley Nature Links

This project will use the model of the Grow West project that has undertaken major Status revegetation action over the past 12 years with several community and funding partners to rejuvenate degraded landscapes around Bacchus Marsh. Grow West has demonstrated Location Maribyrnong catchment that many landholders will participate in landscape improvement and revegetation programs that, over time, can create signiﬁ cant new vegetation corridors (Nature Links) Collaborative Port Phillip and Partners Westernport CMA, across the landscapes. This project will continue landscape improvement works to Melbourne Water, City develop broad Nature Links along the length of the Maribyrnong River and its tributaries. West Water, Western These natural vegetation links will support the movement of native animal species, Water, Parks Victoria, control invasive weeds, stabilise soils and help reduce sediment and nutrient inputs Councils, Bunurong LCAC, to the region’s waterways and Port Phillip Bay. Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Conservation Volunteers Unique value: Australia, Lead West, Melbourne This project demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Airport, Landcare and Friends of Groups cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation. Spatial scale Sub-catchment

Jacksons Creek. Courtesy: Creative Commons

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 31 ACTION 12

Moonee Ponds Creek Catchment Modelling and Analysis

The Moonee Ponds Creek sub-catchment will beneﬁ t from up-to-date modelling Status incorporating comprehensive climate change scenarios. The data will enable thorough analysis of options for stream modiﬁ cations of the stream, including the removal a Location Moonee Ponds Creek concrete channel in favour of a more natural creek environment. The data will also catchment help determine and prioritise the best options to detain water higher in the catchment. Collaborative Melbourne Water, Cities of Partners Unique value: Melbourne, Moreland, Moonee Valley, Hume and other members This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM of the Moonee Ponds Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Catchment Collaboration, cross-organisational collaboration. It may be a mechanism for further IWM Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, advocacy and policy innovation. VPA

Spatial scale Sub-catchment

ACTION 13

Potable Water Supply Augmentation for Western Growth

The signiﬁ cant population growth projected for the Western Water service region, Status in combination with low inﬂ ows to local reservoirs, is placing pressure on the region's potable water supplies. As a result, Western Water is becoming increasingly reliant Location Western Water Service on the Melbourne Water supply system. However, its current entitlements will likely be Area insuffi cient to meet growing demand. This strategy involves exploring potable water Collaborative Western Water, Melbourne supply augmentations using an IWM approach. Options include further optimising Partners Water, Southern Rural local supplies, creating new local supplies, extending the water grid to access supplies Water, Bunurong LCAC, from outside the region and trading water allocations. Wadawurrung, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC* Unique value: Spatial scale Inter-forum

This strategy demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 14

Riddells Creek Recycled Water Plant Off sets

This project aims to off set environmental impacts associated with recycled water Status discharged from Riddells Creek Recycled Water Plant to Jacksons Creek, a major tributary of the Maribyrnong River. This project will investigate the potential to revegetate Location Jacksons Creek areas within the Jacksons Creek waterway corridor to improve environmental Western Water, Port Phillip outcomes for Jacksons Creek and the entire Maribyrnong River system. Collaborative Partners and Westernport CMA, Macedon Ranges Shire Unique value: Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum VPA process. It also demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Spatial scale Sub-catchment cross-organisational collaboration. It may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

32 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Old Bluestone Rail Bridge, Riddells Creek. Photographer: Nicole Patience ACTION 15

River Red Gums Health along Taylors Creek

Signiﬁ cant defoliation is currently impacting the River Red Gum (Eucalyptus Camaldulensis) Status population along Taylors Creek. Changes to the hydrology, primarily as a result of stormwater discharges, has altered the natures of Taylors Creek in this location. Location Taylors Creek An investigation has been undertaken to understand stresses and conditions that are impacting the health of the River Red Gum population. An investigation into Collaborative Brimbank City Council, Partners Melbourne Water, possible interventions is now required to aid population recovery. The learnings Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, from this investigation may inform design and response measures where Red Hume City Council Gums are stressed along the Maribyrnong River or in other catchments. Spatial scale Sub-catchment Unique value:

This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 16

Rosehill Park Wetland and Stormwater Harvesting

This project involves the construction of a wetland and stormwater harvesting Status facility to irrigate 12 hectares of parkland for passive recreation. The project will help reduce pollutants to Steeles Creek and the Maribyrnong River, and has Location East Keilor the potential to reduce downstream ﬂ ooding. Collaborative Moonee Valley City Council, Unique value: Partners Melbourne Water, City West Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC* This project demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. Spatial scale Sub-catchment

Riparian vegetation. Courtesy: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

34 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

ACTION 17

Sunbury IWM Plan

The plan will explore options to address the challenges of growth and climate Status change in the Sunbury area. Key priorities include waterway health and water supply. The plan will involve regional scale harvesting of stormwater to reduce pressure on Location Sunbury Growth Area potable water supplies and protect the ecological values within Jacksons Creek Western Water, Melbourne and Emu Creek from the impacts of excess urban stormwater. Collaborative Partners Water, Hume City Council, VPA, Southern Rural Water Unique value: (advisory), Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC This strategy may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation. Spatial scale Growth area

ACTION 18

Sunshine NEIC IWM Strategy

The Sunshine National Employment and Innovation Cluster (NEIC) is a strategic urban Status renewal area. It covers an area of 2,100 hectares of mixed residential and non-residential developments. This project will develop an IWM Plan to provide a basis to maximise Location Albion, Sunshine and St the beneﬁ t of infrastructure decisions that will deliver an improved waterway service, Albans cost savings and increased resilience for the region. It will Identify stormwater treatment Collaborative City West Water, Brimbank options speciﬁ c to the Sunshine NEIC and deliver options to achieve sustainable Partners City Council, Melbourne stormwater targets. Water, Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Unique value: VPA

This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum Spatial scale Urban renewal process. It also demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, cross-organisational collaboration. It may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 19

Western Irrigation Network

The signiﬁ cant population growth taking place through the Sunbury and Melton Status Growth Areas will create an excess volume of recycled water, which will need to be managed to minimise impact on the environment. The Western Irrigation Network is Location Gisborne, Sunbury, Melton, exploring the use of this recycled water to create a new agricultural irrigation district. Bacchus Marsh The utilisation of the recycled water in this way will not only protect the environment Collaborative Western Water, Moorabool and keep customer bills low, but will also add to the local economy and improve the Partners Shire Council, Melton City agricultural productivity of the region. Council, Hume City Council, City West Water, Southern Unique value: Rural Water (advisory), Melbourne Water, This project may be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation. Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC**

Spatial scale Inter-forum

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 35 ACTION 20

Western Water's Development IWM Plan Guidance

Western Water has issued guidance for land developers across their service region Status to put together IWM Plans at the development scale. Development IWM Plans facilitate a more holistic approach to urban water management that enables development Location Western Water Service and management of increased demand for water services. Development IWM Plans Region also help mitigate environmental degradation and the eff ects of climate change. Collaborative Western Water, Moorabool The plans aim to ensure best value infrastructure is provided for customers and services Partners Shire Council, Melton City support thriving, liveable communities. Council, Hume City Council, Unique value: Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Melbourne Water, This strategy will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM VPA, Bunurong LCAC, Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC* cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM Spatial scale Greenﬁ eld subdivision advocacy and policy innovation.

ACTION 21

Westgate Tunnel Water Management Opportunities

This project seeks to identify and progress IWM opportunities associated with the Status West Gate Tunnel Project to maximise community value from sewer works, drainage features and interfaces with waterways and open space. The West Gate Tunnel Project Location Maribyrnong is a major transportation infrastructure project to deliver a second transport crossing City West Water, over the Maribyrnong River. It will also create areas of new open space and a wetland Collaborative Partners Maribyrnong City Council, retarding basin which could be enhanced by using an IWM approach. City of Melbourne, Melbourne Water, VPA, Unique value: Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC* This project will be accelerated by collaboration and visibility through the IWM Forum process. It demonstrates the potential to generate new, or enhance existing, Spatial scale Sub-catchment cross-organisational collaboration. It may also be a mechanism for further IWM advocacy and policy innovation.

36 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Strategic enablers to put IWM into practice

The IWM Forums were established The DELWP Water and Catchments Barriers to IWM are reviewed, with in Victoria to identify, coordinate Group is responsible for addressing potential state-wide resolutions, or and prioritise place-based and these barriers to implementation in strategic enablers, discussed. These catchment-wide opportunities a holistic manner alongside relevant discussions will help DELWP determine that would most beneﬁ t from government organisations involved potential options for policy reform collaborative water cycle in land use planning and land and associated areas of impact for planning and management. management. industry sectors and organisations.

Alongside these opportunities, Advisory groups drawing on industry Advisory groups provide advice the IWM Forum Members identifi ed and independent expertise support regarding areas where planning, a range of barriers that could DELWP in the development and water, local government and other prevent eff ective implementation implementation of strategic initiatives arms of government need to work of IWM across metropolitan to fi ll knowledge gaps and address more collaboratively to maintain and Melbourne and regional Victoria. issues identifi ed through the IWM enhance the liveability and resilience Forum process. of Victoria’s cities and towns.

Moonee Ponds Creek. Photographer: Tony Proudfoot

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 37 Success Stories

An IWM approach to enhance Hume City Council is collaborating This IWM approach at Greenvale Greenvale Recreation Reserve with Melbourne Water to augment Recreation Reserve will ensure a the existing dam to capture and reliable alternative water supply for Greenvale Recreation Reserve is the treat stormwater generated by future sports ﬁ eld irrigation and improved largest and most diverse sporting greenﬁ eld development. This will stormwater treatment, as well as and recreation open space area increase the stormwater harvesting reduced discharge to local waterways servicing the Greenvale community. capacity and improve water quality and a more effi cient use of water Sporting facilities include three sports so that all irrigation demands can resources and available infrastructure. ovals, cricket practice nets, a turf be met with alternative water. practice wicket area, nine tennis courts, three equestrian sand arenas and an equestrian cross-country course. Other facilities include a community hall, a playground and two pavilion/clubroom buildings. Grassy woodland areas, much of which are protected conservation areas, make up the balance of the reserve. It is anticipated that with further development there will be increased passive recreation opportunities, including walking and cycling through the reserve.

The reserve is situated approximately 1 km west of the main residential area of Greenvale and as such did not have suffi cient water, wastewater and drainage services to meet the needs of the reserve. This drove the implementation of several IWM initiatives including: an on-site sewage treatment plant that produces Class B recycled water for irrigation; stormwater harvesting from an on-site dam; a water effi cient sports ﬁ eld that captures and reuses irrigation run-off and; WSUD features in the car park.

Courtesy: Hume City Council

38 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Moonee Ponds Creek Over the last decades a number of The group’s goal is to address the Catchment collaboration visionary management plans have “I” in IWM – that is, to showcase how been developed for the catchment, groups can work across boundaries The Moonee Ponds catchment however none have been eff ective and in a coordinated manner on starts north of the Melbourne Airport at harnessing the collective energy catchment-scale initiatives. Given and extends to the harbour in the from all stakeholders to bring the more the many interests and diversity Docklands. Although it ﬂ ows into ambitious projects and visions to life. of stakeholders, the group is the Yarra River, it is considered to Upon initiation by City of Melbourne collaborating to address the problem face similar issues as rivers in the and Melbourne Water, 60 stakeholders of how to transform Moonee Ponds Maribyrnong catchment. As such, came together in February 2017 to Creek into an iconic waterway for it is regarded as a sub-catchment talk about collaboration in the Melbourne with high social and of the Maribyrnong for the Integrated Moonee Ponds Creek catchment. environmental outcomes. Together Water Management Forums and One long term community campaigner with all contributing partners, the Healthy Waterways Strategy. reﬂ ected that this was the largest Moonee Ponds Creek Collaboration number of people ever brought has created a forum to share together to discuss the creek. information, ensure coordinated This began the start of the Moonee action, leverage investment Ponds Catchment Collaboration into the catchment and build a group consisting of 17 core members stronger reputation for the creek. and 10 supporting groups.

Moonee Ponds Creek, concreted section. Courtesy: Melbourne Water

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 39 Continued success through collaboration

IWM is an evolving IWM Forums collaborate and oversee It is anticipated that the IWM Forum ongoing IWM planning. The IWM collaborative partners will continue process that seeks to Forum cycle is summarised at right. use their best endeavours to advance coordinate and balance priority IWM initiatives through Phase One of the IWM Forum regular meetings and future Forums. many views and interests cycle has established an enabling in the water sector Forum Members will also assess environment for Victoria’s water the feasibility of additional IWM around common goals sector stakeholders to develop opportunities identiﬁ ed in Phase and agreed outcomes. shared IWM objectives and overcome One (refer to Appendix). sectoral, institutional and geographic boundaries through collaboration. Phase Two will create an opportunity This phase was guided by the to evaluate and share learnings experience and knowledge from Phase One. It will also of the Forum Members. optimise resources and explore the development of innovative Phase Two of the IWM Forum cycle tools and approaches that plan will assume a more strategic approach for, and respond to, water supply to successful IWM implementation and demand in the future. and planning for the Forum Area. This phase will include the development Phase Three prepares the Forum of catchment-wide IWM strategy to refresh the Strategic Directions to inform IWM investments. Statement and review the progress of strategic enablers for IWM. Phase Two will also provide an opportunity for IWM Forum Members to update relevant organisational policies, plans and strategies to reﬂ ect the outcomes of the IWM Forum.

Kayakers, Maribyrnong River. Courtesy: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

40 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Outcomes Participants Phase I

Establish Preliminary work on regional characterisation Local governments and collaborative governance Organisational leaders Catchment come together Agree vision, objectives and goals Management Authorities in collaborative IWM Forums and Agree criteria for selection and prioritisation Water corporations of IWM opportunities Working Groups to Traditional Owners discuss integrated IWM opportunities identiﬁ ed and prioritised water management Department of challenges, Collaboratively develop and endorse Strategic Environment, Land, opportunities Directions Statement for each region Water and Planning and priorities Chair for each region Others as relevant

Phase II

Planning Co-design and agree on Terms of Reference, Collaborative partners governance structure, stakeholder engagement and/ Cultivate a collaborative or community participatory planning guidance for Community culture to progress IWM project/strategy representatives IWM opportunities Others as relevant

Progress IWM Project Groups initiate work as per identifi ed Collaborative partners project/strategy status, including: feasibility Forum Members use assessment; technical and economic analysis; Individual organisations best endeavours who have committed to cost allocation; business case development Next 12-18 to progress IWM a project/strategy months opportunities to Strategic enablers for IWM progressed Community next stage by DELWP with support from Forum Members The feasibility representatives of IWM IWM Project Groups report progress to IWM Forums Relevant stakeholders opportunities will be Incorporate IWM Project Groups to take IWM commitments Individual organisations continually (projects and strategies) to their Board or Councils who have committed reviewed and Collaborative for investment endorsement to deliver a project/ assessed Partner organisations strategy in Phase II incorporate relevant IWM Project Groups incorporate elements into their to confi rm elements of IWM in their own organisational planning systems, e.g. Council the need for own plans, guidelines and corporate plans, Construction Guidelines, etc. specifi c IWM or frameworks projects/ Report back to IWM Forum strategies

Realise Application of practical IWM tools and innovative Collaborative partners approaches IWM beneﬁ ts are Individual organisations realised following Additional community value added through who have committed to implementation of participatory planning a project/strategy project/strategy Monitoring and evaluation of key measures and outcomes Community representatives Economic savings through shared resources, costs, etc. Others as relevant Improved resilience and liveability of cities and towns

Phase III

Prepare Collaborative partners prepare for next round Collaborative partners of IWM Forums IWM Forums prepare to refresh the Strategic IWM Forums collaboratively review key learnings and Directions Statement outcomes from Phase I & II, including catchment-scale IWM Strategy and progress on strategic enablers

Next round of IWM opportunity identiﬁ cation and prioritisation

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 41 Appendix Additional IWM opportunities in the Maribyrnong catchment

The following list of additional IWM Further assessment will be required Shade scale opportunities was identiﬁ ed by the by the collaborative partners to Maribyrnong IWM Forum in the ﬁ rst progress these opportunities phase of the IWM Forum cycle. The through the IWM Forum. Low High list captures potential future priorities for the Maribyrnong IWM Forum. Level of shading refers to the degree of impact the IWM opportunity has on each strategic outcome area. Dark shading represents highest impact.

IWM opportunity Collaborative partners Strategic outcome areas

Stony Creek Directions Plan Maribyrnong City Council, Melbourne Water, Implementation Bunurong LCAC, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Moonee Ponds Catchment 18 members of the Moonee Ponds Catchment IWM Demonstration Collaboration

Brimbank Habitat Brimbank City Council, Hume City Council, Connectivity Measures Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Bunurong LCAC

Improving Soil and Land Port Phillip and Westernport CMA, Brimbank Management to Protect City Council, Hume City Council, Macedon Waterways of the Middle and Ranges Shire Council, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Upper Maribyrnong Catchment Equiculture P/L, Melbourne Water, Melbourne Polytechnic, Landcare Networks

AJ Davis Reserve Stormwater Moonee Valley City Council, Harvesting Project Melbourne Water, City West Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Moonee Valley Racecourse Moonee Valley City Council, Melbourne Redevelopment – Stormwater Water, City West Water, Wurundjeri Harvesting Expansion L&CCHCAC* Opportunities

Romsey Groundwater Supply Western Water, Macedon Ranges Shire and Lanceﬁ eld Drinking Council, Melbourne Water, Southern Rural Water Supply Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Macedon Ranges Shire Water Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Sensitive Urban Design Audit Brimbank City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Recycled Water Supply Western Water, Melbourne Airport, to Melbourne Airport Melbourne Water, Hume City Council, City West Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

IWM Servicing Scheme Yarra Valley Water, City West Water, for Moonee Ponds Creek Hume City Council, Melbourne Water, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*

Environmental Accounts Port Phillip and Westernport CMA, for Maribyrnong Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability, Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria, local Councils, Wurundjeri L&CCHCAC*, Bunurong LCAC, Wentworth Group

* The Wurundjeri Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal Corporation will remain informed of progress related to this IWM opportunity.

42 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Appendix

Glossary of terms

Aboriginal Victorians Biodiversity Climate change mitigation

An Aboriginal Victorian is a person of The numbers and variety of plants, Actions that prevent or reduce Aboriginal descent who identifi es as animals and other living beings, emissions of greenhouse gases an Aboriginal and is accepted as such including micro-organisms, across our that contribute to climate change. by the Victorian Aboriginal community land, rivers and oceans. It includes the in which he or she lives. diversity of their genetic information, Coastal fl ooding the habitats and ecosystems in which Inundation along the coastline Algal blooms they live and their connections with mainly due to fl ooding from the other life forms. A rapid increase in the population of sea associated with storm surge. algae that can occur in waterways, Catchment It may also include additional often caused by excess nutrients fl ooding caused by heavy rainfall. (particularly phosphorus and nitrogen). An area where water falling as rain is collected by the landscape, Community Allocation eventually fl owing to a body of water Includes individuals, public and such as a creek, river, dam, lake or Water that is actually available to use private landholders, community ocean; or into a groundwater system. or trade in any given year, including groups and business owners. new allocations and carryover. Catchment management authorities (CMAs) Connectivity Assets The Catchment and Land Protection Connections between natural Assets are resources that provide Act 1994 established 10 catchment habitats, such as a river channel and benefi t. This includes, for example, and land protection regions, each with adjacent wetland areas. Connectivity infrastructure such as treatment a catchment management authority is a measure or indicator of whether a plants, pipes and pumps, water responsible for the integrated planning waterbody (river, wetland, fl oodplain) assets such as dams, bores and and coordination of land, water and has water connections or fl ow wetlands, and community assets such biodiversity management. connections to another body. as sporting facilities, public gardens Department of Environment, Land, and street trees. Natural assets are Central business district (CBD) assets of the natural environment, for Water and Planning (DELWP) example waterways and vegetation, Melbourne’s original ‘Hoddle Grid’ Supports Victoria’s natural and built also known as natural capital. street layout bounded by the Yarra environment to ensure economic River, Spring Street, La Trobe Street growth and liveable, sustainable Aquifer and Spencer Street, as well as the and inclusive communities. The triangular area to the north bounded An underground layer of rock department assists the minister, by Victoria, Peel and La Trobe streets. or sediment that holds water and develops and implements state allows water to fl ow through it. Climate change policies and programs, and oversees the administration of organisations Aquifer Storage and Recovery A long term change of the earth’s including catchment management (ASR) temperature and weather patterns, authorities. generally attributed directly or The recharge of an aquifer indirectly to human activities such via a well for subsequent as fossil fuel combustion and recovery from the same well. vegetation clearing and burning.

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 43 Ecosystem Green-blue infrastructure Infrastructure

A dynamic complex of plant, Green infrastructure refers to Basic facilities and networks needed animal, fungal and microorganism key vegetation features such as for the functioning of a local communities and the associated street trees, parklands, grassed community or broader society. non-living environment interacting sports fi elds and vegetated walls. as an ecological unit. Blue infrastructure refers to key Irrigation district waterways, wetlands, recreational An area declared under the Water Entitlement (or water entitlement) lakes, stormwater retarding basins, Act 1989 that is supplied with water or other water body features. Authorisation to take water issued by channels and pipelines used Green-blue infrastructure brings in accordance with the Water Act mainly for irrigation purposes. these assets together through 1989. It includes bulk entitlements, integrated approaches to environmental entitlements, water Impervious area deliver community benefi ts. shares, and surface water and A surface or area within a catchment groundwater licences (also known Greenfi eld land that signifi cantly restricts the as take and use licences). infi ltration of water. Impervious Undeveloped land identifi ed for surfaces can include concrete, Environmental water residential or industrial/commercial road surfaces, roofs and saturated development, generally on the Water to support environmental ground such as a lake or pond. fringe of metropolitan Melbourne. values and ecological processes. Integrated water management Groundwater Fit for purpose (water quality) (IWM) All subsurface water, generally Water of a quality that is A collaborative approach to planning occupying the pores and crevices appropriate for its intended use. that brings together all elements of of rock and soil. the water cycle including sewage Flash fl ooding management, water supply, Growth areas stormwater management and water Sudden and unexpected fl ooding Locations on the fringe of treatment, considering environmental, caused by sudden local heavy rainfall metropolitan Melbourne designated economic and social benefi ts. or rainfall in another area. Often in planning schemes for large-scale defi ned as fl ooding which occurs transformation, over many years, Integrated Water within six (6) hours of the rainfall event. from rural to urban use. Management Forum Floodplain A meeting of urban water Heritage River Area management organisations to Low-lying land adjacent to identify, prioritise and commit to a river or stream with unique Land in particular parts of rivers and the investigation of integrated ecosystems dependent on river catchment areas in Victoria which water management opportunities. inundation from fl ood events. have signifi cant nature conservation, recreation, scenic or cultural heritage Integrated water Flow values. These areas are identifi ed and management opportunity protected under the Heritage Rivers Movement of water – the rate of Act 1992. There are 18 Heritage River A servicing need that has the water discharged from a source, Areas in Victoria. potential to leverage broader given in volume with respect to time. benefi ts when undertaken Infi ll collaboratively, using an integrated Gigalitre water management approach. Development of unused or One billion (1,000,000,000) litres. underutilised land in existing Liveability One gigalitre is the equivalent of urban areas. approximately 400 Olympic size A measure of a city’s residents’ swimming pools. quality of life, used to benchmark cities around the world. It includes socioeconomic, environmental, transport and recreational measures.

44 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Appendix

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Rainwater Reservoir

The intentional recharge of water Water that has fallen as rain or Natural or artifi cial dam or into an aquifer either by injection has been collected from rainfall. lake used for the storage or infi ltration and recovery by and regulation of water. planned extraction. Ramsar Convention Resilience Megalitre (ML) Defi ned by section 4 of the Commonwealth Water Act 2007 The capacity of individuals, One million (1,000,000) litres. as the Convention on Wetlands of communities, institutions, businesses, International Importance especially systems and infrastructure to Metropolitan Melbourne as Waterfowl Habitat done at survive, adapt and grow, no Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971. matter what chronic stresses The 31 municipalities that make or shocks they encounter. up metropolitan Melbourne, Ramsar wetlands plus part of Mitchell Shire within Riparian the urban growth boundary. Wetlands of international importance, designated under Refers to land or vegetation National employment and the Ramsar Convention. that adjoins a river, creek, innovation clusters (NEIC) estuary, lake or wetland. Recreational water or Designated concentrations of recreational benefi ts Riverine fl ooding employment distinguished by a strong core of nationally signifi cant The objectives and benefi ts that Inundation of normally dry land knowledge sector businesses and recreational users and community occurring when water overfl ows institutions that make a major members associate with the use the natural or artifi cial banks contribution to the national economy of water, reservoirs and waterways of a creek or river. Also called and Melbourne’s positioning for recreational activities. These main channel fl ooding. in the global economy. objectives and benefi ts include wellbeing and enjoyment, derived Runoff Open space from social interaction, physical The portion of rainfall which activity and relaxation associated Includes land reserved for natural actually ends up as streamfl ow, with activities including sporting landscape, parklands, recreation also known as rainfall excess. events, fi shing, water skiing and and active sports, as well as rowing, camping, walking and waterways and bays. Sewage gathering with friends and family. Potable It also includes fl ow-on economic Wastewater produced from benefi ts to local communities from households and industry. Water of suitable quality for drinking. visitors to regional areas to make the most of these opportunities. Sewerage Productivity Recycled water The pipes and plants that collect, The economic value produced remove, treat and dispose of liquid for an hour of work or a dollar of Water derived from sewerage urban waste. investment. Increasing productivity systems or industry processes is a key source of economic growth that is treated to a standard State-signifi cant industrial and competitiveness. appropriate for its intended use. precincts (SSIP)

Project Regional Victoria Strategically located land available for major industrial development A planned set of interrelated tasks Includes all municipalities outside linked to the Principal Freight or activities to be executed over a metropolitan Melbourne (except Network and transport gateways. deﬁ ned period and within certain part of Mitchell Shire within the cost and other considerations, urban growth boundary). to achieve a goal.

Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement 45 Stormwater Urban renewal Water sensitive urban design (WSUD) Runoff from urban areas. The net The process of planning and increase in runoff and decrease in redeveloping underutilised medium Integrating the urban water cycle groundwater recharge resulting and large-scale urban areas, precincts into urban design to minimise from the introduction of impervious or sites for mixed land-use purposes. environmental damage and improve surfaces such as roofs and roads recreational and aesthetic outcomes. within urban development. Urban water cycle Waterways Stormwater fl ooding The cycle of water through urban environments. Distinguished from Rivers and streams, their Inundation by local runoff . Stormwater the natural urban water cycle by associated estuaries and fl oodplains fl ooding can be caused by local runoff the transfer of water through built (including fl oodplain wetlands) exceeding the capacity of an urban infrastructure and the high runoff rates and non-riverine wetlands. stormwater drainage system or by generated by impervious surfaces. the backwater eff ects of mainstream Waterway condition/ fl ooding causing the urban stormwater Use (water use) waterway health drainage system to overfl ow. The volume of water diverted Waterway condition (or waterway Strategy from a stream or groundwater health) is an umbrella term for the bore. It is not the same as ‘use’ overall state of key features and A high-level direction designed by the end consumer of the water. processes that underpin functioning to achieve an outcome, or a set waterway ecosystems (such as of outcomes related to IWM, Wastewater species and communities, habitat, over a defi ned time period for connectivity, water quality, riparian Water that has had its quality a defi ned geographic location. vegetation, physical form, and aff ected by human infl uence, deriving ecosystem processes such as nutrient Traditional Owners from industrial, domestic, agricultural cycling and carbon storage). or commercial activities. People who, through membership of a Wetlands descent group or clan, are responsible Water corporations for caring for Country. Aboriginal Areas, whether natural, modifi ed Victorian Government organisations people with knowledge about or artifi cial, subject to permanent charged with supplying water to urban traditions, observances, customs or or temporary inundation, that hold and rural water users. They administer beliefs associated with a particular static or very slow-moving water and the diversion of water from waterways area. A Traditional Owner is authorised develop, or have the potential to and the extraction of groundwater. to speak for Country and its heritage. develop, biota adapted to inundation Formerly known as water authorities. and the aquatic environment. Urban greening Wetlands may be fresh or saline. Water infrastructure Growing plants wherever possible in cities to contribute to urban Facilities, services and installations vegetation coverage, and providing needed for the functioning of a a connection to nature. water system.

Urban heat-island eff ect Water sector

When the built environment absorbs, Organisations involved in water traps, and in some cases directly management, including water emits heat, causing urban areas corporations, local government and to be signiﬁ cantly warmer than catchment management authorities. surrounding non-urban areas.

46 Maribyrnong Strategic Directions Statement Pipemakers Park wetlands. Photographer: Chris Pearson. Courtesy Melbourne Water Integrated Water delwp.vic.gov.au Management Forums