A CLEANER YARRA RIVER AND PORT PHILLIP BAY - A Plan of Action
GOVERNMENT TASKFORCE FOR THE YARRA RIVER & PORT PHILLIP BAY
In March 2012, the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Ryan Smith, set up a
government taskforce to develop an action plan for the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay
focusing on four key priorities.
Enable more effective coordination between government agencies in protecting water quality and providing
timely information to communities about water quality events
Manage threats to water quality, including pollution, litter and stormwater inputs by identifying new priority
actions to address them
Develop easier ways for the community to access information about water quality of the Yarra and the bay
Support Victorians to take actions that care for and protect the Yarra and the bay
The Victorian Government has produced this 17 point action plan: A Cleaner Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay and would
like to thank the individuals and groups that contributed their insights on issues affecting the Yarra River and Port Phillip
Bay.
The plan recognises and builds on community efforts in protecting waterways and reaffirms the government’s
commitment to community partnership.
The taskforce members were: the Department of Sustainability and Environment (lead agency), Environment Protection Authority,
Melbourne Water, Port of Melbourne Corporation, Parks Victoria, Department of Health, Department of Primary Industries,
Department of Planning and Community Development, Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority, Corangamite
Catchment Management Authority, South East Water Limited and the Office of Living Victoria.
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne, October 2012
©The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2012
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MINISTER'S FOREWORD
In 2012, Melbourne maintained its title as the world’s most liveable city for the second year running. Contributing to this
success is our natural environment, including the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.
The Victorian Government intends to build on this achievement by strengthening efforts to protect two of our most
beautiful natural assets, the Yarra and the bay.
The Yarra and bay are enjoyed by all Victorians to swim, snorkel, or fish in, row or canoe on, walk or cycle by, and picnic
on their shores. They are home to many unique species of plants and animals. These waterways also contribute to our
economic prosperity supporting commercial fisheries, bustling ports, agriculture, forestry and tourism. It is important that
we protect them now to enjoy them into the future.
We all have a shared responsibility when it comes to looking after the Yarra and bay. Government, business and the
community have a role to play as environmental citizens.
The action plan focuses on four distinct priorities:
• Clearer, more responsive management
• Preventing pollution and reducing litter
• Providing accessible information
• Supporting community action
Our plan responds to the need for a framework that better clarifies responsibilities, identifies practical and effective
actions and enables all Victorians to be informed about the health of these environmental assets.
The health of the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay are directly impacted by what happens throughout their catchments.
Heavy rains wash litter and stormwater downstream which can affect water quality as far away as the bay, as evidenced
by the natural algal bloom in Port Phillip Bay in early 2012.
Whether disposing of our litter more thoughtfully, reducing industrial waste, improving stormwater and land management
to reduce pollution – we can all take action and play our part.
Over the next five years the Victorian Government is planning to spend more than $1 billion on programs and initiatives
that contribute to protecting and improving the Yarra and bay.
This action plan ensures we make the most of these investments and community action.
It is up to all of us to ensure A Cleaner Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.
Ryan Smith Minister for Environment and Climate Change
Government, business and communities working together from the catchment to the coast
Government action priorities
•
•
•
•
Clearer, more responsive management
Preventing pollution and reducing litter
Providing accessible information
Supporting community action
Victorians enjoying a cleaner Yarra and bay
VALUING THE YARRA & THE BAY
The Yarra River provides a focal point for the city of Melbourne and, along with Port Phillip Bay, continues to be vital to
Victoria’s economic prosperity, environmental health and social wellbeing.
The Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay are working environments. More than one-third of Victoria’s population live and work
in the Yarra catchment.
The Yarra River, known as Birrarung to the Kulin people, traditionally provided a food source and meeting place for
indigenous Australians who have maintained a connection to it for over 40,000 years.
The Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay are home to a wide range of native plants and animals including threatened species.
Internationally recognised Ramsar wetlands sit along the western shore of the bay and Bellarine Peninsula, and marine
national parks and sanctuaries provide an opportunity for the community to enjoy our unique environment.
WHY WE NEED AN ACTION PLAN FOR THE YARRA & BAY
Over recent decades, Victorians have worked together to improve the health of the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.
This has involved strategic planning, government investment and community action to improve river health and water
quality, such as removing discharges of untreated wastewater to Port Phillip Bay and establishing Melbourne as a leader
in water sensitive urban design.
As a result of these efforts, Victorians are enjoying the many benefits that come with improved water quality in the Yarra
and bay.
But we still have work to do.
Recent heavy rain highlights how extreme weather events can degrade water quality and affect the amenity of the Yarra
and bay.
Stormwater runoff from urban and rural sources can impact waterway health, particularly in the lower reaches of the
Yarra. Population growth, urban development and increasing extreme weather events reinforce the importance of
addressing these challenges.
For our future safety, health and prosperity, and to protect the natural values of the Yarra and bay, we need to ensure we
maximise the benefits from the significant investment that government, business and the community are already making.
WATER QUALITY IN THE YARRA RIVER & PORT PHILLIP BAY
Good water quality in the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay is vital to provide:
• healthy and diverse ecosystems
• clean, safe swimming
• recreational and commercial fishing and aquaculture industries.
Water quality in the Yarra has improved significantly over the past few decades and has been relatively stable in recent
years. It compares well to similar rivers in major urban areas overseas.
An independent report by the Office of Environmental Monitor1 found after four years of baywide monitoring that overall
Port Phillip Bay was in good health, consistent with the previous decade. However, water quality in both the Yarra and the
bay can be impacted after heavy rain, with stormwater washing pollutants into our waterways.
Water quality varies along the length of the Yarra – with high water quality in the upper reaches, where the river flows
through protected forests, to poorer water quality in some sections of the lower catchment where it is affected by more
intense land use and development.
Water quality impacts in tributaries of the Yarra are often more pronounced, particularly in urban areas. Our waterways
also carry a legacy of our industrial past. Runoff today can carry heavy metals and other contaminants that can be found
in the sediments of our waterways.
Yarra River water quality supports many of the uses valued by the community. Monitoring shows it is generally suitable
for boating and similar activities while swimming is generally suitable only in the upper catchment.
The Yarra, with its extensive catchment area, is the largest flow input to the bay. Water quality in the bay is substantially
affected by activities occurring throughout the catchment and climatic conditions, such as the amount of rain. Local
drains, rivers and creeks carry pollutants from the catchments also affecting water quality and amenity of beaches.
Nutrient loads to the bay are an important issue for the bay ecosystems. Melbourne Water has invested significantly to
reduce nutrients entering Port Phillip Bay, but this is an ongoing challenge. So far, the bay has been resilient to the impact
of these inputs. However, nutrient cycling in the bay is critical to its ongoing good health. It is vital we continue to carefully
monitor and take care of these processes.
1 Office of the Environmental Monitor (2012) Annual review No 4 - January 2012.
SUPPORTING SAFE & CLEAN SHIPPING
Shipping and boating activities in Port Phillip Bay are central to Victoria’s success and prosperity.
The Port of Melbourne is Australia’s largest container and general cargo port. The port handles around 37%
of the nation’s container trade. Marine incidents can impact bay ecosystems and so vessel safety is
paramount to protecting the health of Port Phillip Bay. Vessel safety programs, such as the Steer Clear
campaign help boaters stay safe and enjoy their time out on the bay.
The Port of Melbourne maintains sophisticated safety and environmental management controls to minimise
the impacts of port activities. Strict rules are also in place to prevent marine pollution and the discharge of
wastes, chemicals, oils or high risk ballast water in Port Phillip Bay.
A COMMITMENT TO ACT NOW
The Victorian Government is committed to playing its part and leading action for a cleaner
Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.
Over the next five years the Victorian Government, together with government owned
water corporations, plan to invest more than $1 billion in programs and initiatives that will
contribute to improving the health of the Yarra and the bay.
This investment will establish Victoria as a world leader in liveable cities. By continuing to upgrade urban infrastructure,
including stormwater and sewage systems, we will ensure ongoing protection of the health of our rivers, creeks and bays.
The government taskforce considered all government investment and other initiatives to identify the right actions to
secure a comprehensive program for a cleaner Yarra and bay.
This action plan complements the Victorian Government’s investment in waterway health and sets 17 new priority actions
for a cleaner Yarra and bay.
The plan details actions under four key priorities.
1. Clearer, more responsive management
Strengthening the government’s response and environmental management arrangements for the Yarra River
and Port Phillip Bay
1
Identify the lead agencies for managing water quality in the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay
2
Develop a new Environment Management Plan for Port Phillip Bay that will help address key risks to bay health
including marine pests and nutrient loads
3
Put in place a Response Plan for water quality events in Port Phillip Bay such as algal blooms
4
Extend the role of the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay government taskforce to oversee and coordinate
implementation of the plan
5
Update best practice environmental guidelines for dredging
2. Preventing pollution & reducing litter
Managing threats to water quality of the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay from pollution, litter and stormwater
6
Work with catchment managers to improve water quality at beaches in Port Phillip Bay
7
Revise the guidelines for urban stormwater management for new urban development, to facilitate and support best
practice
8
Identify litter hotspots and develop local partnerships with community, businesses and local government to cut litter
in these areas
9
Target pollution hotspots to improve compliance by industry, land developers and others sources of pollution in
waterways
10
Investigate and trial improved early warning and community information programs for sewage spills and leaks
affecting waterways
11
Develop innovative approaches to reduce wastewater impacts on waterways, including accelerating the sewering
of unsewered areas
12
Update guidance and requirements for on-site wastewater management
3. Providing accessible information
Providing better quality and faster access to relevant information for Victorians about water quality in the Yarra
River and Port Phillip Bay
13
Provide water quality information and advice through a ‘one stop shop’ so Victorians can quickly and easily access
up-to-date information including beach closures and algal blooms
14
Prepare a report card that summarises the Yarra and bay’s water quality and health
15
Improve key water quality monitoring programs, including the Port Phillip Bay Beach Report
4. Support for community action
Supporting Victorians to take actions that care for and protect our rivers and bays
16
Support Victorians to take action and protect water quality and reduce litter. This includes working with
communities to assist them identify and apply for funding from programs such as the Victorian Government’s $20
million Communities for Nature program, Landcare and Coastcare
17
Encourage environmental citizenship including reporting of litter and pollution, learning more about water quality,
and joining community groups to take action to protect the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay
ALGAL BLOOMS 2012
Algal blooms can occur naturally in healthy waters and have been recorded in all areas of Port Phillip Bay since
monitoring began more than 20 years ago.
In January 2012 a large algal bloom formed in Port Phillip Bay following hot weather and heavy rain that washed nutrients
into the bay. The bloom was associated with poor water quality and fish deaths in the north of the bay. Large bloom
events can stress aquatic animals by reducing the available oxygen in the water, clogging gills or producing toxins. In late
January, the dead algae washed up on several bay beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, affecting the use of beaches
for swimming and other recreational purposes.
For more information see DSE’s website: dse.vic.gov.au
Port Phillip Bay January 2012
OUR YARRA RIVER & PORT PHILLIP BAY
Healthy river catchments and bay environments underpin our lives. The Yarra River and Port
Phillip Bay meet our social and recreational needs and are important to the livelihoods of
farmers, fishers and businesses across Victoria.
The Yarra and bay are interconnected ecosystems. Water quality in Port Phillip Bay is
impacted by inputs from its river catchments and the Yarra is the largest of these.
RURAL LAND MANAGEMENT
Runoff from rural and peri-urban land can affect water quality, carrying nutrients and other pollutants.
STORMWATER
Rain can wash nutrients, bacteria and other pollutants from catchments into the Yarra and bay. This can degrade the
water quality of the Yarra and bay.
WASTEWATER
We have come a long way from the open sewers of the 1800s. Victoria has invested in the sewage collection and
treatment infrastructure needed to protect our health and the environment. However, leaks and spills can still affect water
quality.
LITTER
Litter dropped in the street and other areas washes into our drains, into our waterways and onto our beaches. In 2010/11
the removal of litter from our urban waterways cost around $4 million.
POLLUTION HOTSPOTS
Runoff from factories, industrial sites and other pollution hotspots, such as development activities and poor agricultural
practices, makes its way down the Yarra and eventually into the bay.
BOATING & SHIPPING
Victoria benefits from modern ports and shipping that operate under sophisticated safety and environmental controls.
Strict rules minimise the impact of infrastructure development and the risk of rare accidents, such as oil or chemical spills.
QUICK FACTS
YARRA RIVER
Length: 242 km
Runs: From 40 km east of Warburton on the flanks of Mt Baw Baw to the mouth of Port Phillip Bay, Newport
Name: Yarra Yarra means ‘ever flowing’ in the Wurundjeri language
Colour: Brown in the lower reaches because of suspended silt carried downstream
Catchment: Covers about 4,000 square kilometres, includes 24 tributaries and is home to about two million people.
Supplies drinking water to Melbourne
Industries: The catchment supports agriculture, forestry, recreation and tourism
Home to: Unique plants and animals including platypus. The threatened Australian Grayling fish was rediscovered in the
Yarra River
Recreation: Visitors enjoy rowing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, cycling, walking and picnics
PORT PHILLIP BAY
Area: 1,950 square km
Coastline: 264 km
Name: Named after the first Governor of New South Wales, Arthur Phillip
Ports: Port of Melbourne is Australia’s busiest port, supporting 15,000 jobs and $82 billion imports/exports. Geelong is
Victoria’s largest regional port
Home to: Over 1,000 species of marine plants and animals including dolphins, penguins and the Weedy Seadragon
Industries: The $10 million commercial fishing and aquaculture industries are dependent on the bay’s clean water
Recreation: Visitors enjoy the coastal parks and beaches, boating, swimming, fishing and diving
HIGHLIGHTS OF VICTORIA’S 5 YEAR INVESTMENT PROGRAMS
 The Victorian Government has allocated $60 million to the Living Victoria program
(including the Leading the Way Fund) and established the Office of Living Victoria.
 In addition to funding through Catchment Management Authorities and Landcare, the
Victorian Government is investing $20 million through the Communities for Nature
grants program to support practical community action to protect the environment.
 Melbourne Water’s draft Healthy Waterways and Stormwater strategies set out proposed
investments of more than $500 million* for waterway health programs and improved
stormwater management over the next five years.
 Government owned water corporations have released draft plans that propose investments
of more than $1 billion* over the next five years in upgrades to Melbourne’s sewerage
system to maintain and improve capacity and reliability and in projects to improve
integration of water and urban planning (including water recycling and stormwater reuse).
* Investment proposed in draft Water Plans and associated strategies released for public consultation in May 2012. Final
proposals will be submitted to the Essential Services Commission at the end of October 2012 for assessment and
approval of water prices. Proposed investments include some areas outside the Port Phillip catchment.
OFFICE OF LIVING VICTORIA
The Victorian Government’s response to the Living Melbourne, Living Victoria Implementation Plan committed to a new
approach to planning and managing Victoria’s urban water resources. This includes changing how alternative water
supplies (rainwater, recycled water and stormwater) are used in order to reduce pressures on our drinking water supplies,
improve the liveability of our urban areas and reduce negative impacts on the environment.
A key reform element was the allocation of $60 million to the Living Victoria program (including the Leading the Way Fund)
and establishing the Office of Living Victoria (OLV).
The immediate focus of the OLV will be on integrated water cycle planning. Its initial work will include several key
initiatives, including:

coordination and facilitation of the development of integrated water cycle plans for Melbourne’s four growth areas
and inner Melbourne

preparation of a regulatory impact statement for building controls to improve the water performance of new buildings

working with the Department of Planning and Community Development to amend the Victoria Planning Provisions to
apply the current performance requirements for the management of stormwater more broadly.
Better use and management of stormwater as an alternate source will provide a range of benefits to the community
including improved liveability through greening landscapes and improved health of urban waterways including the Yarra
River.
For more information see the Living Melbourne, Living Victoria website: water.vic.gov.au
1. CLEARER, MORE RESPONSIVE
MANAGEMENT
Managing the multiple uses of the bay is complex and requires effective coordination between various government
agencies. Victorians want to be confident that management of Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra River is integrated,
transparent and accountable.
Importantly, Victorians also want to know that when there is an event that affects water quality, the mechanisms are in
place to quickly and effectively respond, and that they will have access to reliable advice.
The Victorian Government has strengthened environmental management arrangements for the Yarra River and Port
Phillip Bay to clarify agency responsibilities.
Department of Sustainability and Environment
Lead and coordinate water quality management for Port Phillip Bay.
Melbourne Water
Lead and coordinate water quality management for the Yarra River. Melbourne Water also provides bulk sewage
services that protect water quality.
Environment Protection Authority
Environmental regulator and independent assessment, reporting and advice about water quality issues.
State and local government play an important role in protecting the Yarra and bay through litter prevention and
management, stormwater management, and on-site wastewater management.
Strategic land use planning by state and local government plays a vital role in protecting river corridors and water quality.
Melbourne Water and the Department of Sustainability and Environment will work with other agencies, local government
and communities to coordinate action to improve and protect water quality and to ensure timely response to any water
quality events.
Other agencies with a role in protecting and caring for the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay include:
 Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority
 Corangamite Catchment Management Authority
 Retail water corporations: Barwon Water, South East Water, Yarra Valley Water, City West Water
 Port of Melbourne Corporation
 Parks Victoria
 Sustainability Victoria
 Department of Health
 Department of Primary Industries
 Department of Planning and Community Development
 Central Coastal Board
 Victorian Regional Channels Authority
 Office of Living Victoria
For more information on these agencies’ roles please refer to page 15.
What the Victorian Government is doing to ensure clear & responsive management of the
Yarra River & Port Phillip Bay
The Victorian Government is delivering more responsive environmental management by:
• Establishing the Yarra and Bay Taskforce to coordinate action across government agencies
• Establishing the Office of Living Victoria to lead integrated water cycle planning
• Developing effective, coordinated plans and strategies to ensure long term environmental protection and improvement,
including:
o Regional Catchment Strategies for the Port Phillip and Westernport and Corangamite regions and a new
alliance approach to implementation of the Port Phillip and Westernport Regional Catchment Strategy that
aligns and coordinates action across agencies and stakeholders
o Victorian Waterway Management Strategy and the Regional Healthy Waterways Strategies
o Victorian Coastal Strategy and Coastal Action Plans
o Melbourne Water’s Stormwater Strategy
o Integrated water cycle plans
o Plans for sewerage infrastructure investment
o Ensuring the safety and compliance of vessels and maintaining robust, ready response arrangements for
marine pollution incidents
o Metropolitan Planning Strategy
o Safety and Environment Management Plans for ports.
WATER QUALITY FRAMEWORK
The National Water Quality Management Strategy provides the context for water quality standards and planning at the
state level.
The State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) establishes the uses and values to be protected. Further
direction for managing water quality will be outlined in the new Victorian Waterway Management Strategy currently being
prepared by the Victorian Government.
Regional targets and priority management actions to improve waterway health (including water quality) in the Port Phillip
and Westernport region are determined by Melbourne Water and are currently outlined in their draft Healthy Waterways
Strategy.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
1. Identify the lead agencies for managing water quality in the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay
Multiple state and local government agencies contribute to water quality in Port Phillip Bay, the Yarra River and other
waterways of the Port Phillip catchment. The government has clarified and confirmed responsibilities to lead and
coordinate action on water quality.
2. Develop a new Environment Management Plan that will help address key risks to bay health including marine pests
and nutrient loads
A new Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for Port Phillip Bay will refresh directions, targets and priorities for
managing the key threats to Port Phillip Bay. The EMP will capture our increased scientific understanding from recent
monitoring. This will be used to update the key risks to Port Phillip Bay and the effectiveness of management actions.
3. Put in place a Response Plan for water quality events in Port Phillip Bay
The Response Plan will ensure coordinated and timely response to water quality events and that reliable information
is provided for beach users and communities. Existing protocols will be reviewed and, where necessary, new
protocols established.
4. Extend the role of the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay taskforce to oversee and coordinate implementation of this
Plan
The taskforce will be expanded to include key stakeholder representatives such as local government and community
groups to assist the government to implement this Plan.
5. Update best practice environmental guidelines for dredging
Recent dredging projects have established new benchmarks in environmental controls for dredging activities.
Victorian best practice environmental guidelines for dredging will be updated to reflect these advances and to reflect
relevant national guidelines. This will minimise the environmental impacts of dredging activities.
2. PREVENTING POLLUTION & REDUCING LITTER
The biggest influence on water quality in the Yarra and the bay is what happens throughout the catchments. Stormwater,
which carries pollutants and litter from catchments to waterways, is a key issue.
Stormwater
Stormwater washes 14,000 tonnes of sediment and 650 tonnes of nutrients, such as nitrogen from fertiliser, into the Yarra
each year, as well as litter, heavy metals and bacteria. This contributes 50-62 per cent of the total contaminant loads to
the bay each year. Other waterways draining to Port Phillip Bay also contribute, from Hovell’s Creek to the Werribee,
Maribyrnong and Patterson Rivers.
Around 540,000 million litres of stormwater flows into Port Phillip and Westernport bays each year. The Victorian
Government’s Living Victoria program identifies this stormwater as a resource that can be turned from a potential threat
to the value of our waterways into an alternative water source for non-potable uses such as for irrigating open spaces
and street vegetation, enabling safer water recreation and reducing the impacts of localised flooding.
What the Victorian Government is doing to manage stormwater impacts
Victoria has a strong track record in urban stormwater management, through developing water sensitive urban design
and embedding this in stormwater management and land use planning and development, particularly in new urban areas.
The Victorian Government has committed to major reforms to meet our future water challenges by making greater use of
stormwater, rainwater and recycled water, as outlined in its response to the Living Melbourne Living Victoria
Implementation Plan. Key initiatives include:
• establishment of the Office of Living Victoria to drive change in how we use and plan Victoria’s urban water systems to
achieve better outcomes for the community, including protecting waterway health
• investment in stormwater reuse by government owned water corporations over the next five years
• Melbourne Water’s draft Stormwater Strategy that sets out the high level strategic directions and approaches for
managing stormwater over the next five years and supports liveability, public health and ecosystem health
• supporting local government to ensure water sensitive urban design is included in local government works and
planning decisions
• implementing stormwater treatment and retention systems, for example, the recently-constructed Dandenong Valley
wetland is the largest in Melbourne and will reduce pollutant loads from Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs to the bay
• assisting Melbourne residents remove pollutants from stormwater before it enters drains through the 10,000
raingardens Program
• supporting improved rural land management to reduce runoff carrying fertilisers, sediment, pesticides and other
chemicals
• the Victorian Government is a partner in the new Cooperative Research Centre for Water Sensitive Cities that will bring
together experts to investigate and deliver improved urban water systems.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
6. Work with catchment managers to improve water quality at beaches in Port Phillip Bay
Pilot the assessment of stormwater drainage catchments at priority beaches to identify sources that may increase
pollutants in stormwater. The study will inform future approaches to identifying sources of stormwater pollution at
beaches.
7. Revise guidelines for urban stormwater management in new developments to facilitate and support best practice
Guidelines for urban stormwater management will be updated to incorporate new research about the impacts of
stormwater pollutants and flows on stream health, supporting the goals of the Living Victoria program.
Litter
Litter is the most obvious pollutant in our waterways and on our beaches.
1,310 truck loads of litter and rubbish were removed from Melbourne’s waterways in 2010-11.
Plastic bags, food wrappers and cigarette butts are not just unsightly, they pollute land and water and spoil natural areas
and public spaces. Broken glass can be dangerous and other items can harm wildlife if they mistake them for food or
become entangled.
Litter has reduced in Victoria in recent years, but Victorians remain concerned about littering of our waterways, beaches
and other natural spaces.
It is not just when litter is dropped at the beach or beside the Yarra River. Litter in our streets and other areas throughout
the catchment can wash into stormwater drains and build up in our waterways and on our beaches.
Cleaning up litter from streets and other public spaces is costly. Litter clean-up costs Victorian local governments $78
million every year. These costs can be avoided by disposing of litter appropriately.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP...
• Install a raingarden that retains and filters stormwater from your property
• Install a rain tank to capture and reuse water on site for non-potable uses
• Don’t use fertilisers or pesticides in a way that they can be washed into the stormwater system or directly into
waterways
• Don’t let dirty water enter a gutter or drain when washing a vehicle or equipment
• Get involved with a community group involved in revegetation or similar which can reduce erosion and filter pollutants
• Learn more about how you can reduce stormwater pollution at your workplace at epa.vic.gov.au
“There are many issues facing the water quality of the Yarra and other waterways leading to
Port Philip Bay. Litter is a major issue as it impacts on water quality and can have a
devastating impact on wildlife.”
- Landcare facilitator
What the Victorian Government is doing to reduce litter
Victoria has a long tradition in litter prevention and management, founded on strong partnerships, community information,
infrastructure and enforcement. The Victorian Litter Action Alliance brings together state and local government agencies
involved in litter management, land managers, industry and other stakeholders to provide advice on litter prevention.
Action includes:
• removing litter from about 160 dedicated litter traps and another 5,000 sites across Melbourne Water’s drainage and
waterways system which are hotspots for collecting litter and debris
• updating the litter strategy which will set out priorities for action to prevent litter
• appointing five local government Litter Prevention Officers in the Port Phillip catchment
• providing a dedicated 24-hour hotline through EPA and the launch of a smartphone App to improve opportunities for
communities to report on litter
• exploring ways to improve public place recycling through education, awareness and infrastructure
• the Roadside Litter Prevention Grants Program - making it easier for Victorians to dispose of litter correctly and
assisting local litter prevention and clean-up programs.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
8. Identify litter hotspots and develop local partnerships with community, businesses and local government to cut litter in
these areas
The partnerships will be developed to meet the local circumstances and may support:
• additional infrastructure
• education/awareness
• enforcement
• clean-up after rain.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP...
• If you are out and about and you can’t find a bin, take your litter home. Carry a litter bag in your car or boat
•
•
•
•
•
Report litter thrown from a vehicle (1300 EPA VIC)
Put extinguished cigarette butts in a bin or public butt receptacle, or carry a personal ashtray
Never hose litter, leaves, paint or other debris into gutters and drains
Start a workplace clean-up and sustainability program
Get involved with a community group cleaning up litter
Industrial & other pollution hotspots
Historically, industry in Victoria discharged untreated wastes to our waterways and bay. This practice ended after the
establishment of the Board of Works and then, the Environment Protection Authority in the 1970s. This significantly
improved the health of waterways and the bay.
However, our waterways still carry a legacy of this industrial past. Polychlorinated biphenyls, industrial chemicals, have
been detected in fish from the lower Yarra and the Department of Health has provided advice about consumption of these
fish.
While most industry and land managers do the right thing, poor waste and stormwater management practices by some
industry, land development and agricultural activities continue to pollute. EPA receives more than 1,500 reports of
pollution across Victoria each month.
What the Victorian Government is doing to prevent pollution
In its role as Victoria’s environmental regulator, the EPA investigates reports of pollution, sets standards for industry,
licences key discharges to the environment and monitors compliance.
EPA targets improved compliance in sectors, sites and locations that pose the greatest risk to the environment and
contribute to pollution hotspots. Over the last 18 months EPA has run targeted inspection programs across six industrial
areas, identifying and stopping pollution discharges. Action includes:
• doubling the number of EPA inspections in 2012/13 and conducting more proactive and unannounced inspections of
all sites, licensed or otherwise. All inspections, including response to community reports are being prioritised based on
the risk activities pose to the environment
• EPA is continuing to improve its approach to identifying and tackling complex environmental problems, devising
tailored interventions
• using Melbourne Water monitoring and research to identify pollution hotspots and to trace sources of pollutants to our
waterways and bay.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
9. Target pollution hotpots to improve compliance by industry, land development and others sources of pollution in our
waterways
The Victorian Government, with support from research agencies such as the Centre for Aquatic Pollution
Identification and Management at the University of Melbourne, will investigate problem areas and collect scientific
evidence to identify pollution hotspots.
The information from these research partnerships will be used to prioritise compliance activities, with the aim of
addressing local sources of pollution and minimising the impacts on water quality in the Yarra and bay.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP...
• Report pollution to EPA (1300 EPA VIC)
• Dispose of waste properly, including wastewater and solid waste, and store chemicals and fuels where they cannot
enter waterways. Label your drains so it is clear which are connected to waterways
• Put in place measures to minimise runoff from building sites carrying sediments, wastes, paint and other pollutants
• Find out more about preventing stormwater pollution at epa.vic.gov.au
Wastewater
Collecting and treating sewage and other wastewater continues to be an important part of protecting the Yarra River and
Port Phillip Bay.
Sewage or other wastewater entering waterways can carry high levels of nutrients, bacteria and other pollutants. Sewage
and wastewater discharges become problems:
• when wastewater collection systems fail, with leaks or spills entering waterways
• during heavy rain, stormwater enters our sewage system making it overflow and discharge to waterways
• when on-site wastewater systems (such as septic tanks) and small privately operated wastewater treatment plants are
not properly operated and maintained.
What the Victorian Government is doing to reduce wastewater impacts
The Victorian Government, through Melbourne Water and our retail water corporations, has established robust, long-term
planning for sewerage infrastructure.
This includes planning for the maintenance and upgrade of our sewerage systems to meet future growth and protect our
waterways.
Government owned water corporations will continue to invest in effective sewage collection and treatment over the next
five years. Draft water plans propose investment of more than $1 billion over the next five years including:
• sewerage infrastructure maintenance and upgrades to minimise leaks and spills and service growth
• sewering of unsewered (or backlog) areas
• improved planning for reuse of treated wastewater, as part of the overall water cycle.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
10. Investigate and trial improved early warning and community information programs for sewage spills and leaks
affecting waterways
Sewage flows increase during wet weather and our sewerage systems are typically designed to contain sewage
flows up to a one in five year rainfall event. When overflows occur, particularly during wet weather, it is important that
information is provided to communities that spills are occurring and may impact on water quality and our use of the
Yarra and the bay.
11. Develop innovative approaches to reduce wastewater impacts on waterways, including accelerating the sewering of
unsewered areas
Innovative approaches to reducing the impact of onsite wastewater management will be trialled and where
appropriate adopted. For example, South East Water has been using new pressure sewerage system technology to
accelerate the replacing of septic tank systems with sewerage services.
12. Update guidance and requirements for on-site wastewater management
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP...
• Don’t let fats or other material that can cause a blocked drain enter the sewerage system
• Owners of on-site wastewater treatment systems should ensure they are regularly maintained and operating correctly
• Report any leaks or spills of sewage to your water corporation (City West Water, Yarra Valley Water, South East Water
or Barwon Water)
• Make sure there are no cross connections between your stormwater drains and the sewerage system at home. For
example, make sure the roof spouting and stormwater systems on your property are working properly and not
connected to the sewerage system
3. RELEVANT & ACCESSIBLE INFORMATION
Every year millions of people enjoy Port Phillip Bay’s beautiful coastline, swimming beaches and coastal parks.
Victorians want a single source of information about water quality and how they can help protect it.
This is vital so that:
• communities can be confident that these natural assets are being protected, and that they can safely use and enjoy
them
• visitors can make informed choices about how and when to enjoy the Yarra and bay
• community members can understand what they can do to help protect water quality.
Government agencies can make informed and appropriate decisions on designing and delivering water quality
improvement programs.
What the Victorian Government is doing to provide the community with more information
EPA has monitored water quality in Port Phillip Bay for more than 20 years. The Beach Report and Yarra Watch
programs provide key information to communities about the suitability of water quality for swimming, boating and other
recreation. Beach Report includes a daily forecast of water quality at 36 bay beaches over summer. Yarra Watch and
Beach Report are available through EPA’s website.
Other monitoring includes:
• nutrient cycling and bay-wide water quality monitoring in Port Phillip Bay
• water quality and stream health monitoring at more than 150 sites across the Port Phillip and Westernport regions
• targeted investigations and research e.g. research by the Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management
to identify pollution hotspots.
These will form part of the ‘one stop shop’ outlined in Action 13.
EPA’s Beach Report website was viewed 281,000 times over the 2011/12 summer
88% of people appreciated tips to keep waterways healthy
65% of people have sought information on a topic relevant to waterway health1
1 Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2011, My Victorian Waterway
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
13. Provide water quality information and advice through a ‘one stop shop’ so Victorians can quickly and easily access
up to-date information on beach water quality and algal blooms
Victorian Government agencies will bring together all of their information in a single website to provide universal
access to water quality information.
14. Prepare a report card that summarises Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay water quality and health
The Victorian Government will develop a report card for the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay. The report will provide
information on water quality and actions to improve waterway health.
15. Improve key water quality monitoring and reporting programs
This includes:
• improving the information provided through Beach Report. EPA will work with local government and other stakeholders
to develop new ways to ensure information on bay beach water quality meets community needs and is readily
accessible
• investing in additional nutrient monitoring in Port Phillip Bay over the next three years
• reviewing Yarra Watch in light of latest information on the nature and risk posed by bacterial pollution in the Yarra River
• reviewing bay-wide water quality monitoring to take account of new knowledge from extensive monitoring undertaken
over the past decade.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP...
• Do not swim near creeks and drains after heavy rain
• Be informed about the health of Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra River by accessing water quality information published
by EPA and other agencies
• Use Beach Report, Yarra Watch and other water quality information or get involved in WaterWatch to make good
choices about using the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay for recreation
• Report pollution to EPA (1300 EPA VIC) and if you see something in the water that appears out of the ordinary, report it
to your local council, catchment management authority or Melbourne Water
LITTLE PENGUINS IN THE BAY
The St Kilda breakwater colony of more than 1,300 Little Penguins feed in the bay and in winter, many of Phillip Island’s
26,000 Little Penguins also spend time in the bay, looking for food such as anchovies.
For more information see the Office of the Environmental Monitor’s website: www.oem.vic.gov.au
4. SUPPORTING COMMUNITY ACTION
Supporting Victorians to take actions that care for and protect our rivers and bay
Waterway protection is the responsibility of all Victorians. To protect and improve our waterways, the efforts of individuals,
local governments, state agencies, rural landholders, and hundreds of community groups working across the catchment
and state are crucial.
This action plan recognises the significant role of the community in protecting our waterways and the hundreds of
community groups in the Port Phillip catchment working towards a better environment.
Building community awareness is the key to ensuring that more Victorians do the right thing to protect our precious water
resources and understand how our everyday actions impact these waterways.
What the Victorian Government is doing to support community action
• Working with communities to improve land management - 68 new Landcare facilitators have now been appointed
across Victoria to work with communities to improve land management
• Raising awareness, building capacity and providing advice and support to land managers to minimise their impact on
water quality, including through improved farm design and revegetation
• Information sharing and linking individuals and organisations - Catchment Advisory Round Tables share information
across catchment stakeholders
• Delivering grants to communities - Communities for Nature, Coastcare, Landcare, CMA and Melbourne Water provide
community grants for on-ground works
• Water monitoring - Healthy Waterways Waterwatch program and the Corangamite Waterwatch and Estuary Watch
programs
• Supporting revegetation through the new 2 Million Trees program
• Developing and implementing regional catchment strategies to identify priorities for action
• Protecting catchments through well managed marine national parks and sanctuaries and partnering with community
groups
The government will continue to partner with communities, businesses, and local governments to implement these action
priorities. Government will support communities by identifying priorities for action, providing information and advice about
how to make a difference and through grants that support action.
COMMUNITIES FOR NATURE
The Communities for Nature Grants is a $20 million program over four years, funded by the Victorian Government. The
program, managed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment aims to:
• support practical community action in the environment
• create visible and lasting improvement
• foster greater enjoyment of the natural environment
• strengthen partnerships and participation by equipping communities with the ability, skills and knowledge to take action
safely and with the capacity to optimise resources.
This statewide program can support communities taking action on issues they consider important including those in the
Yarra and bay catchments.
For more information see DSE’s website: dse.vic.gov.au
“My children play there - so its health is important to the family.”
- Victorian river user
IMPROVING RURAL & PERI-URBAN LAND MANAGEMENT
Water quality in the Yarra River is affected as it travels downstream through the rural and peri-urban areas as a result of:
• nutrient and chemicals in runoff arising from over application of fertiliser or other agricultural chemicals
• erosion and increased sediment loads due to reduced ground cover, exposed farm tracks and stock access
to waterways
• loss of in-stream and riparian habitat.
Victoria’s catchment management authorities and Melbourne Water are already supporting improved land
management and stewardship through a range of community based programs. For example, through
supporting improved farm design, runoff interception, fencing waterways and improving vegetation.
NEW PRIORITY ACTIONS
16. Support Victorians to take action and protect water quality and reduce litter
The Victorian Government will work with communities to identify and apply for funding from programs such as the
Victorian Government’s $20 million Communities for Nature program, Landcare and Coastcare.
The Victorian Government will establish a new award to recognise community action by Victorians that protects the
Yarra and the bay.
17. Encourage environmental citizenship
Victorians will be encouraged to take action to protect the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay by reporting litter and
pollution. Improved information will also help Victorians understand the impact of their actions at work and at home.
“The best thing about my job is the interaction with local community. I have had the
opportunity to meet very dedicated and passionate people who have achieved great
things... I am really enjoying all the new challenges of my role as Landcare facilitator.”
- Landcare facilitator
HOW TO FIND OUT MORE & GET INVOLVED
Clearer, more responsive management
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Information on Port Phillip Bay: Department of Sustainability and Environment 136 186 dse.vic.gov.au
Information on the Yarra River: Melbourne Water 131 722 melbournewater.com.au
Information on monitoring, reporting and regulation: Environment Protection Authority 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842)
epa.vic.gov.au
Preventing Pollution & Reducing Litter
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Pollution and Litter Reporting Hotline: Environment Protection Authority 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) epa.vic.gov.au
Information on litter programs: Sustainability Victoria sustainability.vic.gov.au; Victorian Litter Action Alliance
litter.vic.gov.au
Information for business and community about reducing stormwater pollution: Environment Protection Authority
epa.vic.gov.au
Information about raingardens: Melbourne Water raingardens.melbournewater.com.au
Relevant & Accessible Information
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•
•
•
•
Information on water quality in the Yarra River or Port Phillip Bay: Environment Protection Authority 1300 EPA VIC
(1300 372 842) epa.vic.gov.au
Information for recreational water quality monitoring information for the Yarra River: Yarra Watch 1300 EPA VIC (1300
372 842) epa.vic.gov.au
Information on water quality at 36 beaches in Port Phillip Bay throughout summer: Beach Report
epa.vic.gov.au/beachreport
Information on marine life in Port Phillip Bay: Museum Victoria Taxonomic toolkit portphillipmarinelife.net.au
Information on fish consumption from the lower Yarra River: Department of Health health.vic.gov.au
Supporting Community Action
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For a list of Landcare networks in your area: Landcare landcarevic.net.au
Funding opportunities to improve water quality in the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay: Port Phillip and Westernport
Catchment Management Authority ppwcma.vic.gov.au; Corangamite Catchment Management Authority
ccma.vic.gov.au
Information to connect local communities with river health and sustainable water issues and management:
Waterwatch vic.waterwatch.org.au
Information about volunteer opportunities to improve water quality in the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay: Waterwatch
vic.waterwatch.org.au; Parks Victoria parks.vic.gov.au; Corangamite Catchment Management Authority
ccma.vic.gov.au
THE WEEDY SEADRAGON
Marine pollution, habitat destruction and the international aquarium trade are the largest threats to the Weedy Seadragon
- Victoria’s marine faunal emblem that can only be found in the waters off south-eastern Australia.
For more information see DSE’s website: dse.vic.gov.au
Other agencies with a role in protecting and caring for the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay include:
Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority
Delivers integrated catchment management by developing strategies, building cooperation, coordination, partnerships and delivering
key projects
Corangamite Catchment Management Authority
Delivers integrated catchment management by developing strategies, building cooperation, coordination, partnerships and delivering
key projects. Waterway manager for waterways in the Geelong area
Retail water corporations (Barwon Water, South East Water, Yarra Valley Water, City West Water)
Provide water, sewerage trade waste and water saving services for residents and businesses
Port of Melbourne Corporation
Provides the strategic management for the Port of Melbourne and its development. PoMC operates under sophisticated environmental
management controls and with Department of Transport, leads response to marine pollution incidents in Port Phillip Bay
Parks Victoria
Manages marine national parks and marine sanctuaries in Port Phillip Bay and is the local port manager for Port Phillip Bay. It is the
waterways manager for the Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers for the purposes of recreation, leisure, tourism and water transport including
litter collection in the lower Yarra
Sustainability Victoria
Leads integrated waste management and resource efficiency. This includes leading and coordinating implementation of Victoria’s litter
strategy
Department of Health
Responsible for programs to enhance and protect health and wellbeing and provides public health advice where relevant to the use of
Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra River
Department of Primary Industries
Supports sustainable management of Victoria’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. Provides information and advice on the use and
management of resources through a range of community education and extension programs including on nutrient and salinity
reduction in rural areas
Department of Planning and Community Development
Has a central role in managing Victoria’s growth and development and works with local government and other key stakeholders to lead
state and metropolitan strategic planning and development assessment. It shares the responsibility for Melbourne’s waterways and
development of the surrounding land with a range of state agencies and local governments
Central Coastal Board
Responsible for preparing guidelines for coastal planning and management which may have implications for marine water quality. It is
also involved in the development and implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, coastal action plans and approved coastal
guidelines
Victorian Regional Channels Authority
The Victorian Regional Channels Authority manages port waters for the Port of Geelong
Office of Living Victoria
The Office of Living Victoria will work with the water corporations to drive change in how we use and plan Victoria’s urban water
systems and achieve better outcomes for the community, including protecting waterway health