Melbourne Water is the floodplain manager for the Port Phillip and Westernport region, covering an area of more than 13,000 km2 and encompassing a population of more than 5.2 million. Our flood strategy identifies that more than 250,000 properties are subject to flooding in a 1%AEP with an estimated annual average damage from flooding of $735.5 million.
Flood maps are an essential risk management tool to protect the community from the worst impacts of flooding. Since the mid-80s, Melbourne Water has undertaken a computer-based flood modelling and mapping program.
In response to the city's growth and rapid change in modelling complexities, Melbourne Water has transformed our approach to flood modelling, including:
· Collaboration with the 38 local government partners
· Developing our more than 250 models in the context of shifting technical standards
· Understanding when flood models need updating and balancing investment costs with risks
· Balancing risks including factors such as climate change pathways
· Continuing to deliver through major floods and community concerns relating to the impacts of new information.
The information from this program will continue to profoundly influence Melbourne's urban planning and floodplain management, supporting the evolution of a safe and liveable city.