Petition updateStop Maribyrnong River flooding and damaging hundreds of homesWe are thrilled to announce that we have just surpassed 1700 signatures on our petition!
Maribyrnong ResidentMelbourne, Australia
Feb 11, 2023

As we continue to gather more signatures, please share the petition with your friends, family, and social media networks. The more people who know about this issue, the more we can make a difference.

Despite several more floods occurring in the aftermath of the last major flood in 1974, as seen in the chart above, no significant updates have been made to the evacuation plans, warning systems, or overall response strategies. We are seeing the same trend now, four months on, little to no progress has been made of what would be done differently if another flood happened tomorrow.

Further there is still no officially published figure or map for the number of homes, community groups and sporting clubs that were affected. The Age has posted 606 properties across Maribyrnong, Ascot Vale, Aberfeldie, Avondale Heights and Kensington.

This is due to the fact that all relevant authorities have been deferring to the Melbourne Water review, where the Terms of Reference specifically excludes any consideration of mitigation, early warning, and infrastructure investment. 

For those who were directly impacted by the floods, this lack of action only compounds the trauma and stress they experienced. This trauma is particularly evident in the elderly in the area, we encourage everyone to reach out to your neighbours and check in.

It is now four weeks since the Melbourne Water Terms of Reference was released for the Maribyrnong Flood Review. As you may have seen this week Nick Wimbush, the chair of this review, resigned after an article published by The Age brought to light concerns of independence. Members of the Victorian Parliament are pushing for a parliamentary review of the state's flood management. However, the Premier has opposed the idea, stating that existing reviews and investigations are sufficient. 

It's understandable to feel frustrated and powerless in such a situation. It's important to remember that change often takes time, and that advocating for progress and speaking up about the need for action can make a difference.

Once again, thank you for your unwavering support. Let's keep up the good work and make a positive change together!

 

Copy link
WhatsApp
Facebook
Nextdoor
Email
X