The Australian Government has announced a new funding opportunity to support modelling to better predict the impact of stormwater on water quality in Reef catchments.
Funding is available for the development of large-scale Model for Urban Stormwater Improvement Conceptualisation (MUSIC) models for priority Reef catchment urban areas.
MUSIC is a software tool used by local councils, catchment managers, and urban developers to manage stormwater. It helps simulate rainfall and pollution to predict how stormwater affects water quality.
With these new models, local councils will be able to:
- Track pollutants in stormwater
- Understand the effects of runoff on water quality
- Compare different treatment options to reduce pollution
- Help manage water in a more connected way
The project will provide most of the major urban centres in Reef catchments with access to a large-scale MUSIC model.
The project is part of phase 1 of the Reefwise Urban Program, which aims to better manage urban pollution within priority Reef catchments.
The data will feed into the Paddock to Reef Integrated Monitoring, Modelling and Reporting Program. It will ensure investments are targeted for future phases.
The initiative is funded through the Reef Trust. The Reef Trust is Australia's investment program to protect and manage the Reef. It also supports delivery of the Reef 2050 Plan.
Applications close Monday 21 July 2025.
