Alphington Wetlands serves as the City of Yarra's sole conservation and natural resource park, aimed at safeguarding the area's ecological integrity along with its historical, scientific, landscape, habitat, and cultural significance. Each year, a variety of citizen science programs are conducted to enhance public education and foster a deeper understanding of the natural environment.
This wetland is a sanctuary for a variety of locally rare species, including frogs, waterfowl, mammals, and reptiles, contributing to the region's biodiversity. To ensure the protection of the natural environment and minimize disturbances to our resident wildlife, the presence of domestic animals is prohibited within Alphington Wetlands.
Facilities
Dogs Prohibited from Alphington Wetlands
Safeguarding Alphington Wetland's rare and unique wildlife, in 2015 Council ordered a ban on dogs throughout the wetland sanctuary. While some dogs may simply enjoy splashing in the water, their natural curiosity or instinct to chase can pose serious threats to local fauna and result in fines for their owners.
Council's Compliance staff regularly patrol both Alphington Park and the Alphington Wetland to ensure that responsible pet ownership is upheld, promoting a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors. Council's Order document (below) provides a full list of mixed use and dog friendly reserves.
Citizen Science
Alphington Wetlands provides an amazing resource supporting Environmental Education and Citizen Science programs. A variety of annual environmental programs regularly provide opportunities to learn more about our natural environment, including
- April : City Nature Challenge 2026: Yarra · iNaturalist Australia
- September : Biodiversity Blitz 2025: City of Yarra · iNaturalist Australia
- November - Frog Census FrogID Week | Australian Museum FrogID Project