This Design Note 3 guideline sets out the preferred approach for MUSIC modelling within the City of Greater Geelong (the City). It provides guidance for developers, consultants and reviewers on the preparation, submission and assessment of MUSIC models.

As a general approach, MUSIC modelling should be undertaken in accordance with the Melbourne Water MUSIC (Model for Urban Stormwater Improvement Conceptualisation) Guideline (2026), as amended. This Design Note identifies specific requirements, advice and input parameters that differ from the Melbourne Water guideline and provides climate data and modelling parameters applicable to stormwater treatment and reuse systems within the City. Submission requirements are provided in Chapter 9 of this document. 

This guideline was originally developed by the City in consultation with E2Designlab.

This document provides guidance on modelling approaches and input parameters for MUSIC models submitted to the City. The MUSIC User Manual can be accessed through the eWater website or from within the MUSIC software.

Users are expected to have an understanding of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles and appropriate training and experience in the application of MUSIC.

This document is a modelling guideline and should be read in conjunction with the following documents (as amended):

• MUSIC Guideline (Melbourne Water, 2026)
• WSUD Engineering Procedures: Stormwater (Melbourne Water, 2005)
• Constructed Wetlands Design Manual (Melbourne Water, 2020)
• Biofiltration Systems in Development Services Schemes Guideline (Melbourne Water, 2020)
• Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) (2022)
• Adoption Guidelines for Stormwater Biofiltration Systems (CRCWSC, 2015)

MUSIC is a conceptual modelling tool used to assess the stormwater treatment performance of WSUD assets. Model outputs should be supported by appropriate engineering, hydraulic, landscape, ecological and maintenance considerations in accordance with the relevant design guidelines. MUSIC is not a drainage design tool and must not be used as a substitute for hydrologic or hydraulic drainage analysis.