This species is associated with large swamps, permanent dam impoundments, ponds, and lakes (particularly ones with reeds) in woodland, shrubland, open and coastal areas.

The call is a three part moaning "craw-ork ar-ar", rising and then falling in tone (described as the sound of a duck or goose being strangled).

The males develop black, rough nuptial pads on their thumbs during the breeding season, which occurs during spring through to late summer.

This frog has declined across much of its range and has disappeared altogether from some regions (such as the Australian Capital Territory and the lowest 200 KM of the River Murray).

Animals released from the pet trade established in the Adelaide Hills in the 1990s but this population is now extinct.