Map pins are available via the tab key in a list after the map.

You can pan the map with the keyboard arrows.

Map pins are available via the tab key in a list after the map.

You can pan the map with the keyboard arrows.

Explore water quality across Victorian beaches

EPA forecasts water quality for 36 beaches in Port Phillip Bay.

EPA also issues alerts when there is an issue affecting a waterway in Victoria.

Beach report only runs in the summer months. Forecasts will begin on 1 December. Always check for signs of pollution before you swim.

 

Avoid swimming near stormwater or river outlets 24-48 hours after heavy rain.

Water quality forecast key

  • Good

    Safe for swimming

  • Fair

    May not be safe for swimming

  • Poor

    Not safe for swimming

  • Illegal

    City bylaws prevent swimming

  • Not available

    Forecast data unavailable

View data in table format

Forecasts

Good means water quality is probably safe for swimming.

Fair means water quality may not be safe for swimming. Check for signs of pollution before you swim. For example; stormwater drains flowing, murky water, bad smell, and rubbish.

Poor means water quality is probably not safe for swimming.

When a forecast is not available, you can protect your health by not swimming near drains or river outlets for 48 hours after rain.

Children, older people and people with a weakened immune system are most at risk of getting sick from polluted water.

EPA posts forecasts on this website, Twitter, and signs at lifesaving clubs (on weekends and public holidays).

 

Get the latest water quality alerts on your phone

Sign up to EPA’s free SMS service.

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How are forecasts calculated?

EPA forecasts are based on rain, water quality history, sunlight, weekly sampling, and pollution reports.

EPA tests water samples for a bacteria found in faeces called enterococci.

Enterococci  is the best indicator for measuring pollution from faecal contamination at beaches.

In poor water quality,  bacteria  may lead to illness. A common illness from swimming in poor quality water is gastroenteritis. You should see your doctor if you suspect you are unwell from swimming.

 

Reviewed 23 July 2020