A flood study is a technical investigation of flood behavior within the study area which defines the extent, depth and velocity of the flood waters as well as the variation in flood hazard. It defines the nature of potential personal danger and potential damage to property resulting from flooding by providing information on the distribution of flood waters across the section of land that is prone to flooding.
The major components of a flood study involve determining discharge (hydrologic aspects) and water levels, velocities, etc (hydraulic aspects) for floods of varying severity.
A number of analytical tools can be used in flood studies, depending on the data available, the flow situation, the nature and extent of development, and the level of detail required. Generally detailed studies are required in both urban and rural areas, because knowledge of flood characteristics is required to deal with existing problems, future development and the continuing flood risk.
Your local council can advise you if your property is affected by flooding and provide you with relevant information which may include a previous Flood Study undertaken. This flood study would normally include maps which show the various flooding characteristics across the local government area. In addition, Council will provide Flood Certificates on request, for a fee, for individual properties. The certificates provide specific information about the property that can be used to understand the extent of flooding on the property and to assist in preparation of Flood Risk Management Reports which are required in support of development applications for development or redevelopment on flood control lots in accordance with the Development Control Plan.
You face real flood risks if your property is identified by Council as being in a flood affected area. Properties that have been identified as being within the flood planning area are classified as a flood control lot. This means that the land will be subject to flood-related development conditions to reduce the impact of flooding. For example, if your property is identified, you may need to put measures in place to manage flood risk, such as raising the floor level of any new building work. It is important that you discuss this with an experienced civil engineer to get an understanding of what options are available for your site. The civil engineer has the ability to undertake flood modelling and will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome whilst also complying with the council’s development control planning controls.
Council is already undertaking a Flood Risk Management Study and Plan to identify and
prioritise measures to manage the risks of flooding, such as controls on new development, review of emergency response and mitigation works like a drainage system upgrade.