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Overview

This annual report updates the community on the progress towards delivery of the Waterways of the West Action Plan.

It was released in April 2023 to reflect the first year of implementation in 2022 and supports the Victorian Government’s commitment to update the community annually on implementation over the five-year life of the Action Plan.

The action plan recognises the Waterways of the West as living and integrated natural entities. The region includes the Maribyrnong / Mirrangbamurn and Werribee / Wirribi Yaluk catchments.

The action plan considers the regions:

  • rivers
  • creeks
  • wetlands
  • waterway landscapes.

The plan recognises the Bunurong, Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Traditional Owners as voices of the living entities on their Country.

It is a new community-led approach to help protect iconic waterways in Melbourne’s west for generations to come.

The Action plan identifies 9 directions and 40 actions. Short-term actions aim to deliver results within the first year of implementation. The Government has committed to delivering longer-term actions within 5 years, subject to funding.

Community vision

The Waterways of the West 50-year community vision is also important. The vision encourages agencies and communities to walk together with the Traditional Owners of the Waterways of the West.

A young child at a fair, holding the hand of an adult sized costumed platypus. The platypus is kneeling down.
Werribee River Association community engagement
Source: Werribee River Association

Collaboration and partnership

Each action lists a responsible lead organisation. Delivery of the action Plan also needs strong collaboration and partnership. A self-determination approach with Bunurong, Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Traditional Owners guides our partnerships.

The Action plan is also linked with recent Victorian Government policies, including:

Action plan implementation for 2022

In 2022, the Action plan delivered:

For a snapshot of annual progress, read our action updates.

You can also read the full 2022 annual report for more information, including highlighted case studies of the work to date.

Action plan annual report

Page last updated: 08/09/23