By Matthew Sims
A group of Maribyrnong residents have launched a petition calling on government and other relevant authorities to introduce flood prevention measures.
At the time of publication, more than 1000 people have signed the petition supporting the group’s push for action.
The requests for action within the petition included investing in upstream mitigation measures to reduce the impact of future extreme weather events, improving and upgrading infrastructure such as drainage systems and levees to better manage and redirect floodwaters and the establishment of an early warning system to give residents adequate time to prepare and protect their homes.
Melbourne Water has appointed an independent expert to lead a review into the Maribyrnong River flooding event, which is open for public consultation until Friday, March 17.
On Friday, October 14, 2022, significant flooding occurred within the urban catchment of the Maribyrnong River, impacting more than 500 properties across Maribyrnong and causing extensive damage.
“It is clear that investing in mitigation measures will ultimately save money in the long run, as the tangible costs associated with the October 14th flood alone are estimated to exceed $210 million,” the petition read.
“We, the residents of Maribyrnong and surrounding areas, are deeply concerned about the ongoing impact of flooding on our homes, community and environment.
“An estimated 1300 impacted residents are still experiencing displacement, navigating repairs to their properties and processing emotional trauma.”
The petition said the mental impacts on residents were severe and far-reaching.
“Residents are faced with processing grief and loss amongst the acute stress of being displaced immediately during a crisis post flood,” the petition read.
“There is a loss of routine, control over one’s home, possessions and social support, and all these challenges present physical and psychosocial health implications for individuals over the developmental lifespan, from children to the elderly.
“Many residents are first and second-generation immigrants, who have experienced previous displacement and for them, the experience of the flood can be re-traumatising and contribute to cumulative impacts of trauma and poor mental health.”
Details: maribyrnongfloods.com or www.change.org/p/stop-maribyrnong-river-flooding-and-damaging-hundreds-of-homes
