It is found in a variety of wetland environments including freshwater ponds, freshwater lakes, farm dams, slow moving rivers and small waterways. It is a poor flyer and tends to stay on the water, hiding amoung plants and vegetation for safety.

The Australasian Grebe’s diet includes small fish, particularly crayfish, water insects and other aquatic animals such as crustaceans, pond snails. Grebes catch their prey during deep underwater dives, sometimes taking their prey to the surface of the water to eat. Grebes can dive to depths of over 10 feet when searching for food. It mainly feeds at dawn and dusk.

Australasian Grebes are shy birds and excellent swimmers and when approached, they will disappear under the water with a quick dive and swim away under the water.

These small water birds are quite vocal during breeding season and defend their territories against rival birds. This species of grebe produces a loud, rapid metallic chittering noise, which becomes higher and harsher when threatened.