Yarra Valley Water (YVW), in partnership with leading experts in ecological restoration, floodplain management, hydrology, threatened species conservation and the site’s Traditional Custodians, is restoring floodplain wetland function and establishing woodland and wetland habitat across more than 35 hectares at the Upper Yarra Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The project will create a climate resilient conservation area and breeding location for the critically endangered Helmeted Honeyeater and lowland Leadbeater’s Possum within the treatment plant’s buffer land. The design integrates three key elements: hydrological design of wetlands and watering regimes, detailed planting design specifying species and spatial arrangement, and a master plan that unifies ecological, cultural, landscape and future operational objectives. The hydrological restoration considered water quality to evaluate potential water sources and landscape hydraulics to understand floodplain responses to proposed interventions. Water balance modelling indicates that, in average years, catchment flows will provide sufficient water to meet the desired seasonal wetland regime, while during prolonged dry periods, supplementary recycled water from the WWTP will be required to sustain habitat vegetation. The creation of additional wetlands will deliver operational benefits for YVW, including improved effluent quality and consequently, enhance protection of the Birrarung/Yarra River. Co design with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Aboriginal People has ensured the project integrates Culturally valued environmental outcomes within the restoration outcomes. Wetland restoration works and establishment-phase planting are scheduled for completion in December 2026.