Problem-driven and technology-enabled solutions for safer communities: the case of stormwater management in the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region (NSW, Australia)

Stormwater management is a key responsibility for local governments and a major challenge to consider in planning for urban growth. The Smart Stormwater Management project uses Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, environmental sensors, and data analytics for improved stormwater management. This includes the detection of culvert blockages in real time, managing estuaries more effectively in order to reduce flooding, monitoring water quality and levels, and optimizing the maintenance of gross pollutant traps. All the sensor data are captured in a single open database which can be visualized with a dashboard and integrated into an agent-based model to better predict flood risks in real time with greater accuracy for enhanced community safety. The design phase of the system involved community consultation to ensure its relevance and acceptability. The collected data being open, the project also promotes citizen science and public awareness around water-related issues. The outcome is an IoT solution mixing community engagement, environmental sensors, artificial intelligence, open data, and software that can be used to help improve community safety and stormwater management.