IWM Strategy for a Clever and Creative Future: CITY of Greater Geelong

Case study: Sustainable and resilient water infrastructure for environmental goals

To address the unique environmental challenges of a rapidly growing region, the City of Greater Geelong engaged Wave Consulting Australia to develop an Integrated Water Management (IWM) Strategy that aligns with their Clever and Creative Future vision.

Integrated Water Management (IWM) strategy, prioritisation and targets
Wadawurrung lands, Geelong

Key facts

There are 3 main growth areas projected to house 110,000 people

Action plan with 12 recommendations proposed

The problem

City of Greater Geelong is one of the fastest growing LGAs in Victoria. With unique local environmental values, waterways and coastline, and a changing climate, Geelong is conscious that integrated water projects are critical to a liveable, sustainable, and prosperous city and region.

As part of their commitment to A Clever and Creative Future vision, the City of Greater Geelong articulated the premise of developing smarter and well-designed green and integrated water infrastructure.

Wave Consulting Australia was engaged to support this vision by:

developing a prioritisation model for where best to deliver IWM projects
drafting IWM targets and consult with a range of stakeholders as part of the process
developing a water balance
reviewing IWM projects and their relative benefits
drafting a final IWM Strategy.

This comprehensive approach aims to enhance water management, environmental sustainability, and the overall quality of life in the Geelong region.

Aerial shot of coast line in Geelong, with large pier and harbour and green public spaces.

The solution

Wave Consulting’s work involved:

documenting how the City of Greater Geelong prioritises integrated water management projects
drafting an action plan with 12 recommendations to prioritise future IWM projects and targets which are critical to deliver on The City of Greater Geelong's vision.

Our proposed IWM targets covered the following areas:

urban greening and cooling
alternative water use
flood mitigation
high profile precincts
partnerships
cultural flows
healthy waterways
biodiversity.

The outcome

The City of Greater Geelong was presented with the final IWM Strategy. Council was able to use this work and prioritisation strategy to inform how they work with developers. It also highlighted which areas of the local government area (LGA) and which projects are more likely to deliver greater benefits to the environment and the community.