Australia has two distinct rivers named the Fitzroy, each offering a very different paddling experience. The Fitzroy River in Western Australia's Kimberley region is one of Australia's largest river systems, running approximately 500 miles and carrying flows of up to 30,000 cfs past the isolated community of Fitzroy Crossing on Highway 1 during peak flood. The river passes through dramatic gorges, including Geikie Gorge (Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park), and transitions between rugged ranges and open cattle country. Paddlers have completed multi-day expeditions covering stretches of 80 kilometres or more, navigating a mix of fast-moving water, rock jams, debris-clogged channels, sandbanks, and deeper pools. The end of the dry season, around September, offers cooler and less humid conditions with lower water levels, though paddlers should expect significant walking and wading between paddleable sections. The wet season, December through April, brings the river to full flow with powerful rapids, but conditions become extreme and the river is recommended only for highly experienced paddlers with expedition-level preparedness.

Access to the Kimberley Fitzroy is remote, and some paddlers have used light aircraft to reach put-in points at station airstrips. Within Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park, private boats have historically been restricted to before 7:30am and after 4:30pm to avoid conflict with commercial tour boat cruises, and camping within the park is not permitted. Paddlers should contact the relevant land managers and obtain permission from station owners where the river crosses private land. Wildlife includes freshwater crocodiles, barramundi, and abundant birdlife amid rugged cliffs and ancient rock formations.

The Fitzroy River in Queensland flows through Rockhampton, approximately 500 kilometres north of Brisbane, and is set to host rowing and canoeing events at the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. A barrage separates the freshwater upper reaches from the tidal, saltwater lower section. The freshwater reach above the barrage is not subject to tidal influence, and local paddlers describe the water surface as calm and glass-like in winter conditions. The Fitzroy Canoe Club is active on this stretch. Saltwater crocodiles are present in the river, with warning signs posted along the banks, though sightings are described as uncommon. The Depot Hill Boat Ramp on Quay Street in Rockhampton provides a four-lane concrete ramp with pontoon access to the river at any tide, along with parking, lighting, and toilet facilities.