Floodplain management and development advice
We use data from past flood events and catchment modelling to understand flood behaviour and prepare floodplain mapping for our state's major rivers. This is used to guide future development on floodplains. It also assists government, industry, insurers and the community to prepare for, and respond to a flood emergency.
To help prepare flood forecasts and warnings to Western Australia's communities we monitor current river levels and rainfall.
Read more about floods, floodplains and floodplain management in our publications below.
Floodplain mapping tool
You can use our floodplain mapping tool and/or request site-specific advice to obtain information about flood risk in your area.
The floodplain maps are intended to be used for general interest and as a land use planning guide. The information presented may be important when you are:
- buying a new property
- building a new house
- planning a new subdivision
- developing a personal response plan to minimise the impact of flooding on your property
- purchasing flood insurance
- performing property valuations.
For site-specific flood advice please contact flood@dwer.wa.gov.au.
For information on building controls regarding major river flooding, please contact your local government authority.
Flood emergency
The floodplain maps should not be used by the public to make decisions during a flood emergency.
For the latest emergency warnings visit Emergency WA, call 13 3337, follow DFES on Twitter or listen to news bulletins.
You can also visit the Bureau of Meteorology, Department of Fire and Emergency Services and Main Roads websites for warnings and information.
