Perth's Swan and Canning rivers are a recreational playground. They also boast vibrant commercial and tourism activity, and diverse and resilient ecosystems.

More than 40 parks and reserves line the banks, and the rivers hum with aquatic activity. The Swan Canning Riverpark includes 7210 hectares of river reserve and adjoining public land. 

The Riverpark is home to a diverse fish community, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, birds, spiders, reptiles, and small mammals.

The connection of the waterways to the Whadjuk people spans 40,000 years. This means the Riverpark hosts many historical, mythological and cultural sites of significance.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) works with other state government agencies, local government, industry and the community to manage and protect the Riverpark, ensuring it remains a healthy, thriving ecosystem and a popular destination for Perth’s residents and visitors.

2024-25 Riverbank Funding Round open

DBCA is pleased to announce the opening of the 2024–25 Riverbank Funding round. See the Minister for Environment's media statement for more information and visit our Riverbank Funding page to find out how to apply.

Swan Canning Riverpark Visitor Satisfaction Survey Report

A survey was undertaken of the Swan Canning Riverpark users and visitors expectations, the level of satisfaction of the Riverpark features, pattens of use, and areas for improvement in the Riverpark and surrounding foreshore parks. The survey was completed in December 2022 with 250 respondents interviewed. The average satisfaction was scored at 80.9%. Findings of the report will help the department and foreshore land managers to target management actions that can improve community enjoyment of the Riverpark.

Marli Riverpark: An Interpretation Plan

In 2013, the Swan River Trust commissioned the National Trust of Australia (WA) to prepare an Interpretation Plan for the Swan and Canning Riverpark. In collaboration with an appointed Noongar Advisory Panel, the intent of this plan was to make the cultural heritage values (natural, Aboriginal, and historic/built) of the Derbarl Yerrigan and Djarlgarro Beelier (the Swan and Canning Rivers), accessible to residents and visitors.

Explore the Riverpark

The Swan and Canning rivers are truly the heart of Perth, ensuring it is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.