Canberra, is surrounded by an array of water features such as lakes, ponds, and wetlands and water-based recreation is an integral aspect of the outdoor lifestyle and tourism in the city. But poor water quality can have negative impacts, such as the closure of swimming beaches when faecal indicator bacterial (FIB, enterococci) concentration exceeds safe levels (FIB > 200 colony-forming unit per 100 mL). This research aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for promoting safe and enjoyable water-based recreational activities in urban Canberra. The presentation will cover recreational use of urban ponds and community perception of water quality in Canberra suburbs, spatio-temporal variation of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) exceedance, and the association between hydro-meteorological parameters and FIB concentration in the city’s three main swimming lakes (Lake Burley Griffin, Lake Ginninderra and Lake Tuggeranong).