Discover the facts and stories behind our water data to inform, sate your curiosity or casually rule your next virtual trivia night. With in-depth knowledge acquired from managing Melbourne's water supply catchments, sewage treatment, river health and major drainage systems, we're keen to pay it forward. Select your topic of interest, and soak it up.
Why our drinking water tastes great
Most of Melbourne's drinking water comes from forests high up in the Yarra Ranges, and is naturally filtered. That's one reason why our drinking water tastes great from the tap. Find out the other reasons, which step you through the manner in which water is supplied to you:
Tip: Discover details about desalination, and how it helps to secure our water supply.
The importance of sewerage
Did you know we built the underground sewerage system in the 1890s? Discover how sewerage continues to be integral to our city to ensure sanitation, and why it's super important to watch what you flush.
What happens after you flush?
Do you know where sewage goes? Find out what happens after you flush, from sewage disposal to treatment. Get to know the Western and Eastern treatment plants, and how we recycle water to ensure 'wastewater' is put to sensational use.
Western Treatment Plant treatment processes
Eastern Treatment Plant treatment processes
Learn what happens when you flush
Does it flood in Melbourne?
Yes. Flooding occurs naturally and while we can’t stop floods happening, we can work together to plan for and manage the risks, prepare the community and reduce the consequences.
Learn about how we maintain our regional drainage network, coordinate flood management planning and boost community flood preparedness.
Know your rivers, creeks and wetlands
If we lined up all the rivers and creeks that flow into Port Phillip Bay and Western Port, how long would it be? If you guessed 25,000 kilometres, you'd be right! Find out how we manage these waterways, and work to maintain their health and habitat. Know more about your local waterways, home to 36 species of freshwater fish and many other animals and plants.
History and heritage
Check out our rich heritage inherited largely from our predecessor, the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, as well as the cultural heritage of the Traditional Owners of the land, rivers and creeks we care for today.