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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
12:44
Watershed Planning within a Quantitative Scenario Analysis Framework
Published on: July 24, 2016
Transitioning to a waterways city: municipal context, capacity and commitment
P J Morison1, R R Brown, C Cocklin
1School of Geography & Environmental Science, Monash University, Clayton Campus Victoria 3800, Australia. peter.morison@arts.monash.edu.au
Summary
Local governments in Melbourne show varied commitment to Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). Addressing municipal capacity and commitment is crucial for creating a sustainable "waterways city."
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Planning
- Social Science
Background:
- Melbourne is transitioning from a "drained city" to a "waterways city" through Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD).
- This transition is challenged by inconsistent municipal commitment to WSUD implementation.
- Existing urban water management models require adaptation to local municipal contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and understand municipal commitment and capacity for WSUD in Melbourne.
- To identify deficits in municipal commitment and capacity that hinder WSUD adoption.
- To develop a model for securing a sustainable "waterways city" by addressing these deficits.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative measurement of municipal commitment and capacity across three distinct geographical areas in Melbourne.
- Utilized an innovative, comprehensive, and replicable assessment technique.
- Social research methodology focusing on local government performance in WSUD.
Main Results:
- Significant variability in municipal capacity and commitment to WSUD was observed across the studied areas.
- A pronounced deficit in both capacity and commitment was identified in the rural-regional area.
- Current intergovernmental approaches may not adequately address these localized dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Flexible and innovative intergovernmental mechanisms are needed to support integrated urban water management like WSUD.
- Addressing municipal commitment and capacity is essential for the successful realization of the "waterways city" vision.
- Findings offer applicable principles for international cities managing shared urban stormwater responsibilities.
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