Human actions such as land clearing and natural events like bushfires can impact our waterways. Pollutants, including chemicals, oil and excess nutrients can also affect waterways and water quality.

EPA works to protect water environments. We:

• use measures in the Environment Protection Act 1970 to prevent harm from pollution, and protect Victoria's waterways
• regulate industries and activities that have the potential to pollute marine waters or estuaries
• place controls on industry to help stop pollutants entering water environments
• conduct year-round water quality monitoring at fixed marine monitoring sites
• monitor and forecast summertime water quality
• investigate reports and incidents of marine pollution
• contribute to marine research projects
• partner with businesses, government, individuals and groups to help protect our waterways.

We all have a role to play in protecting our waters. We can do this by not littering, and not putting things like paint, detergents and oil down stormwater drains. 

Report pollution to our pollution hotline on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC).