- New River Protection Strategy 2026-2036 to guide future management of the Swan Canning river system (Derbal Yirragan Djarlgarro)
- $7.1 million investment to protect, restore and boost river health and resilience
- Cook Labor Government safeguarding Perth’s iconic Swan and Canning rivers
The Cook Labor Government has today launched the River Protection Strategy 2026-2036, a new 10-year plan to protect and restore the Swan Canning river system.
Developed by the Swan River Trust and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), the River Protection Strategy was informed by consultation with State agencies, local governments, Traditional Owners, natural resource management groups and the broader community.
Implementation will be supported through a series of shorter-term plans, developed by DBCA and key stakeholders, helping to track progress and deliver tangible outcomes for river health. The strategy will guide investment, policy and on-ground action over the next decade, ensuring a consistent and co-ordinated approach to managing the river system.
Key features of the strategy include:
- a shared vision for a healthy, thriving river system for people and nature;
- clear objectives and measurable targets to track water quality, biodiversity, foreshore condition and community amenity; and
- recognition of Noongar culture, knowledge and custodianship as fundamental to caring for the river system.
The strategy launch is backed by a further $7.1 million investment via the 2026-27 State Budget, building on decades of management, conservation and restoration efforts to improve water quality, protect biodiversity and strengthen ecosystem resilience.
The funding will drive targeted research and projects, including the deployment of a mobile oxygenation unit, enhanced water quality monitoring, digital modelling, catchment management, increased grant funding for local governments and investigations into contaminants affecting river health. Together, these initiatives will improve water quality, restore habitat and strengthen the resilience of native wildlife and ecosystems to respond to emerging threats.
Since 2017, the McGowan and Cook Labor Governments have invested over $150 million in a range of community and environmental initiatives to improve the health, resilience and amenity of the Swan Canning river system.
To view the strategy, visit the DBCA website .
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
“The Swan and Canning rivers are part of Perth’s identity and one of our State’s most iconic natural assets.
“That’s why my government is delivering a new 10-year River Protection Strategy, backed by a further $7.1 million investment.
“This plan will do more than just improve water quality. It will restore habitat and help keep our rivers healthy for generations to come.”
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
“As a kid growing up in Perth I loved swimming, canoeing, rafting, prawning and fishing in and around the Swan and Canning rivers, and these happy moments are something I want future generations to be able to enjoy as I did.
“The Swan Canning river system is one of Western Australia’s most significant natural and cultural assets, supporting biodiversity, recreation and community well-being.
“The River Protection Strategy is backed by an additional $7.1 million investment by the Cook Labor Government and provides a clear plan to improve river health and deliver practical, on-ground outcomes.
“Importantly, it recognises the enduring connection of Noongar people to these waterways and the vital role of Traditional Owner knowledge in caring for Country.
“By strengthening collaboration across government, Traditional Owners, researchers and the community, we can help ensure these iconic waterways continue to thrive for generations to come.”
As stated by Bateman MLA Kim Giddens:
“This strategy is about backing the projects and partnerships that will improve water quality, restore habitat and strengthen the health of the river system.
“It’s an investment in the future of our rivers and the communities that enjoy them.
“This is about more than just looking after our environment, it’s about protecting places that are part of Perth’s identity.”
As stated by Bicton MLA Lisa O’Malley:
“The Swan and Canning rivers are among Perth’s most treasured natural assets.
“For communities like ours along the river, these waterways are an important part of everyday life, bringing people together and providing beautiful places to enjoy the outdoors.
“This new strategy, backed by the Cook Labor Government’s investment, will help protect and restore our rivers so they can continue to be enjoyed by local families for generations to come.”
As stated by the Swan River Trust chair David McFerran:
“The Swan River Trust is proud to launch the River Protection Strategy for the Swan Canning river system.
“This iconic river system is the heart of our community, nurturing a vital connection between people and nature.
“Protecting it requires shared commitment, with this strategy providing a clear framework for collective action to ensure a healthy, resilient river system.”
