Prepare for flooding

As our city grows and our climate changes, more properties across Melbourne will be at risk of flooding. But by understanding your flood risk and taking a few simple actions, you can be prepared.

Preparing your home

How to assess your personal flood information – transcript (66KB, PDF)

Know your flood risk

Check if your home is in a flood-prone area by using your local VICSES flood guide.
Sign up to flood alerts and warnings by downloading the VicEmergency App.

Check your insurance

Check if your home insurance policy covers flood and stormwater damage, and make sure you understand any exclusions or limitations.
Store copies of your insurance documents in a secure, accessible location.

Prepare your emergency plan and flood kit

Create an emergency plan for your home or business to record key contact details and other important information.
Pack an emergency flood kit with at least three days’ worth of essentials, in case you lose power or need to evacuate.
Download checklists, templates and resources to help you plan from the VICSES website.

Protect your home

Clear debris from gutters and drains.
Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundations.
Check that you have sandbags or know where to get them.

Secure your belongings

Store important documents and valuables in waterproof containers, or create digital backups.
Make sure power points, switchboards, electronics, appliances and furniture are positioned above expected floodwater levels.

For more information, download:

Flood resilience home checklist PDF|1.1 MB

Retrofitting flood-affected homes

If you own a home in a flood-affected area, you can reduce the impact of future flooding by applying methods and materials that are less prone to damage – and saving costs in temporary relocation and repairs. Find out more:

Interior of home that has been retrofitted to be resilient to flooding

Staying safe in a flood

Your safety is the top priority during a flood. Floodwaters are powerful enough to destroy roads and bridges, and can contain pollutants and hidden debris.

Need help? For life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000). For flood emergency help, call the Victoria State Emergency Service at 132 500.

Monitor weather warnings on ABC Radio or via VicEmergency’s website, app or hotline (1800 226 226)
Never drive through floodwater – just 15cm of water can float a small car
Register at a Relief Centre or with your local council for help
Evacuate early if you’re told to, and wait for official clearance before returning home.

Preparing your community

By staying informed and working together, you can help build a flood-resilient community.

Understanding community flood risk – transcript (69KB, PDF)

Here’s how you can do your part:

Connect with local authorities for workshops, resources and real-time updates
Start a flood action group to coordinate emergency plans
Organise community cleanup events to prevent flooding before it starts
Promote flood awareness in your community so everyone knows what to do in an emergency
Support green infrastructure, like raingardens and permeable pavements, which help to absorb stormwater.