St Kilda Pier Redevelopment

Major works continuing on one of Australia’s largest pier builds.

As works continue, in this update, we’re excited to share details about the distinctive curved timber seating terrace and the penguin viewing area. 

Timber decking
The timber decking being used throughout the project is emerging as a standout feature as the distinctive curved and tiered seating area nears completion. 

Progress at the kiosk area is continuing with a new curved pavilion that includes public toilets and an information shelter. We’re also rebuilding the existing cafe deck area to ensure its longevity. Alongside the construction works, we’re working to progress the appointment of a new commercial operator for the St Kilda Pier Kiosk. We’ve shortlisted potential operators from the Expression of Interest with the aim to have a new operator appointed later this year.

The penguin boardwalk, a significant feature of the project, has reached an important stage with the completion of its structural framework. The installation of its timber and FRP (fibreglass reinforced plastic) mesh decking is currently underway.

This new space will provide significant habitat improvements for penguins and improved viewing for visitors by separating visitors from sensitive nesting sites. It will deliver 150m of additional protected wildlife habitat adding to the existing 500m of protected habitat on the breakwater.  

Less glamourous than other elements of the project but equally as important, is the new rock groyne to the south of the new pier. 
Recently completed, this rock groyne provides an important wave shelter for the new pier. 

Pier abutment works are now also underway which will see the new pier connect to the land. These works will continue throughout 2024 which may cause some disruption to Bay Trail users. Traffic management signage and staff will be in place as required. 

Foreshore upgrade
If you’re not already across it, City of Port Phillip is working on a project to create an iconic entrance to St Kilda Pier – which involves aligning Jacka Boulevard and the foreshore with the new pier alignment. For more information on this exciting project visit the City of Port Phillip – St Kilda Pier page. 

Upcoming works

Over the coming months we’ll continue installing the penguin boardwalk decking and completing the terrace area timber section. Concrete pours will continue at the pier abutment with the land and near the kiosk. Works on the new information shelter and toilets will continue. 

Later in the year, we’ll commence removal of the old pier to allow access for dredging at the low landing of the new pier. This will ensure ferries can access the new pier as soon as possible. 
 

Changes to the way you move around the pier

St Kilda Pier is in a unique environment, with a long and narrow project site in one of Melbourne’s most popular outdoor playgrounds. Works are being undertaken from trucks, barges and work boats and involve piling and general construction activities in the water. As we work on the land abutment stage of the works, users of the Bay Trail may experience temporary delays and adjustments as concrete works are undertaken. 

Please be patient and follow onsite signage and direction from workers. Please also remember:

• There is an 100m marine exclusion zone around the project worksite – enacted as on water works are underway.  All vessels and swimmers must not enter this zone.
• A shared wind sports area is located north of St Kilda Pier where kiteboarding and other wind sports are permitted to exceed 5 knots. 
• Speed limits and boating/swimming zones apply around St Kilda Pier - including 5 knot speed zones within 200m from shore and 50m from a structure, another vessel or person. 
• Access to the old pier is currently still permitted for walking, fishing and recreation. Jumping and diving from St Kilda Pier remains illegal and extremely dangerous. Always enter the water from the beach or use ladders provided. Swimmers are encouraged to use the beach adjacent to St Kilda Lifesaving Club 400m south of St Kilda Pier which is patrolled in summer. 
• The breakwater and penguin viewing area are currently closed.

Project timeline