South Gippsland Council releases flood maps showing heightened risk for 900 properties
The new reports identify how towns, rivers and catchments throughout the shire will be impacted by the increased risk of extreme weather.
Jacob Wallace
June 15, 2026
New flood maps released by South Gippsland Council have identified roughly 900 properties and 180 dwellings that will likely be impacted by an increased risk of floods and water inundation.
What happened: The 10 new maps, developed by council and the West Gippsland Catchment Authority (WGCMA), were compiled using historical flood information, on-site research and computer modelling.
The maps attempt to identify how towns, rivers and catchments throughout South Gippsland will be impacted by the increased risk of floods and water inundation as severe weather events become more frequent and more intense.
Where it’s at: The majority of properties impacted by potential flooding are located in Foster, Hedley, Kongwak, Welshpool, Venus Bay, Sandy Point, Waratah Bay, Port Franklin, Toora, Agnes, Welshpool and the Tarwin River catchment along South Gippsland's coast.
Community thoughts: The proposed flood maps were released in late May, with residents able to provide feedback to council on the maps until July 6.
After the period of community feedback, the council will look to adopt the changes into its planning scheme, which means expanding its Flood Overlay (FO) and Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) on land identified as being affected by flood risk.
What is an overlay?
An overlay is a planning tool local councils use to identify what buildings and developments might require specific permits and considerations before being approved.
Overlays help councils ensure particular matters, such as flood or fire risks, are appropriately considered during the planning process.
To have a development approved in a FO or LSIO in Victoria, developers must prove the building or buildings won't obstruct floodwaters, impact surrounding properties or endanger occupants.
How will community feedback impact maps?
South Gippsland mayor Nathan Hersey told the Monitor the feedback process gives landowners the opportunity to challenge potential errors in the flood maps.
“Some people are going to look at the maps and say they entirely understand the changes and probably expected them already,” Hersey said. “But you may also have people who will say: ‘This is not an accurate reflection of what is the lived experience on the land.’”
Submissions
South Gippsland residents can arrange a private appointment with council staff to hear more about the maps by calling on 03 5662 9200 or emailing [email protected].
Submit feedback to the council on the maps here. Submissions close at 5pm on Monday July 6.