Floodplains are reliant on their connectivity with rivers and the resultant flood pulses that drive their vegetation dynamics. However, many of Australia’s floodplains are in decline having become disconnected from their parent waterway via human modification of river systems. Our study assessed the potential for restoring floodplain connectivity (via creek dechannelisation works) to promote riparian forest restoration. We observed multiple benefits from successful reengagement including increased growth, seedfall and germination of the dominant floodplain tree, Eucalyptus camphora. Where possible, dechannelisation of streams and reengagement of floodplains is likely to lead to multiple benefits for riparian forests.