The North East Catchment Management Authority has welcomed funding to support waterway recovery as a result of the January 2026 Victorian bushfires.
The fires caused significant damage to rivers, creeks and surrounding landscapes across Victoria. In north-east Victoria, the impacts were worsened by a major rainfall event over the northern part of the bushfire impact area.
North East CMA said 200 to 250 millimetres of rain fell in four hours around Shelly and Koetong. The new funding will allow the CMA to deliver on-ground works that repair damage and strengthen waterway resilience.
What damage did the bushfires cause?
Bushfires can leave waterways exposed to erosion, sediment movement and debris. When intense rainfall follows fire, ash, soil, burnt vegetation, and other material can quickly move into rivers and creeks. That can affect water quality, aquatic habitat and the stability of riverbanks.
North East CMA said the funding will support work across waterways and catchments affected by the fires and subsequent rainfall.
The program will focus on practical recovery work that protects environmental assets and reduces future risk.
- Want more information on what Inside Water is up to? Sign up for our weekly email, landing in inboxes with the latest news.
- Do you want the magazine delivered to your letterbox? Sign up here to subscribe.
What recovery works are planned?
Planned works include stabilising riverbanks to prevent erosion. North East CMA will also replant native vegetation along waterways and repair riparian fencing to manage stock access. Crews will remove fire-related debris from creeks and rivers.
The recovery program will also control invasive weeds that can spread after disturbance.
North East CMA Senior Project Officer Andrew Holzheimer said the works are needed to protect water quality and habitat.
“These works are essential to protect water quality, restore habitat for native wildlife, and support the long-term health of the region’s waterways,” Holzheimer said.
Why does fast recovery matter?
Fire-affected waterways can remain vulnerable long after the flames have passed. Bare banks, burnt riparian vegetation, and damaged fencing can leave streams exposed to further erosion. Floods or heavy rainfall can then move sediment and debris through the catchment.
By acting now, North East CMA aims to support recovery while improving resilience for future events. The work will also help protect cultural values and maintain community access to healthy natural spaces.
Who will deliver the recovery program?
North East CMA will work with landholders, Traditional Owners, local partners and community groups. The CMA said that a collaborative approach will help ensure work is targeted and effective. Community members may see contractors working along waterways in the coming months as recovery works progress.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
North East CMA said restoring fire-affected areas now will help protect the region’s natural environment and support healthier rivers and creeks into the future.
