July 27th, 2025Flood protection

Communities across Victoria will be better protected from future flood impacts thanks to the $5.8 million Regional Flood Risk Reduction Grants Program.

Ten funded initiatives will focus on increasing flood protection and mitigation for local communities – including the installation of moveable flood barriers, connecting gaps in existing levee systems, improving flood risk mapping and updating flood studies to reflect current conditions.

These projects aim to address the ongoing impacts of climate change while strengthening existing infrastructure and expanding community knowledge about future disaster risk.

The funding will be shared by Buloke Shire Council, Campaspe Shire Council, Ballarat City Council, Gannawarra Shire Council, Hepburn Shire Council, North Central Catchment Management Authority, Victoria State Emergency Service, Warrnambool City Council and Wellington Shire Council.

Victoria experienced some of its worst flooding on record in October 2022, and these grants further the state government’s work to support communities across the state to be better prepared for flood events – with locally led solutions that reflect each area’s unique needs.

One of the key projects will improve flood resilience in Rochester and Echuca by investing in flood mitigation infrastructure, including moveable barriers and flood gates.  

This will protect homes, infrastructure and essential services like the Rochester Early Learning Centre – reducing reliance on labour-intensive sandbagging, supporting businesses and maintaining access to medical and emergency services in the event of a flood.

The program is funded through the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and is administered by Emergency Management Victoria.