This report outlines the quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) method, results and recommendations for risk characterisation in Port Phillip Bay, to support EPA’s role in protecting Victorians from the effects of pollution and waste.

EPA commissioned QMRAs of water quality during the 2017–18 swimming season for 3 popular beaches on Port Phillip Bay: Altona, Elwood and Frankston. QMRA is a holistic approach from source to receptor (in this case humans) that integrates all factors likely to affect microbial health risks to effectively provide a clear understanding of these risks.