The Department of Land and Water Conservation (DLWC) was commissioned by Wollongong City Council (WCC) through its Northern Suburbs Floodplain Management Committee to prepare a data compilation study for the coastal catchments between Austinmer and Clifton. The study forms part of the first stage of a Floodplain Management Study (FPMS) for the area, and will collate available hydrologic, hydraulic, geotechnical and environmental information. The information originated from a range of sources including both non-government and government agencies. In addition, the report will highlight areas that require further investigation by means of a FPMS.

The study area is located on the South Coast of NSW and encompasses several of the Illawarra escarpment coastal catchments from Austinmer to Clifton. Catchment topography is predominantly steep; the Illawarra escarpment is located towards the western upper part of the catchments. The Illawarra railway line runs parallel to the escarpment and crosses many of the creeks in the study area.