Community Update 
Altona Pier Redevelopment Project

February 2023

It's nearly time to start rebuilding Altona Pier

Following extensive consultation and project planning, permits and approvals, works are almost ready to begin on construction of the brand-new Altona Pier.

With the tender for construction awarded in December 2022, on-ground works on this exciting project will get underway in May 2023. The build is expected to take most of 2023 to complete, which means the new pier will be ready to showcase to the community next summer.

The first construction steps are to establish the work site and remove the existing pier. During the removal of the pier, contractors will salvage reusable pier timbers which will be made available to Hobsons Bay City Council for inclusion in foreshore redevelopment works.

The Victorian Government is investing more than $11.9 million into the Altona Pier Redevelopment project to ensure a safe and accessible community asset that enhances the surrounding area.

Above - Altona Pier is deteriorated and set for removal and rebuild in 2023.

An exciting design for Melbourne's west

Altona’s new pier will create an attractive focal point for the whole community. The 4.2 metre wide deck will be constructed from timber which the community identified as the preferred material to enhance the pier’s appearance. With the improved accessibility of new handrails and lighting, the pier will provide an enjoyable place to walk and enjoy the views across towards Melbourne’s skyline.

• Stretching over 300 metres out into Port Phillip the branched pier head gives land-based fishing opportunities with improved access to off-shore artificial reefs.
• The pier includes two circular seating areas for rest and recreation
• The curved design provides multiple vantage points on the branching pier head and an accessible low landing and ladders for connection to the water
• Materials include timber decking, the community's preference, on a stable and durable concrete substructure
• The pier’s new alignment with Altona’s Pier Street will provide an improved visual connection to the foreshore
• A new safe turning bay for emergency and maintenance vehicle access at the pier head

Meet our construction partner

Following a competitive tender process during 2022, the contract for constructing the new Altona Pier has recently been awarded to Simpson Construction Co. Experienced in successfully delivering maritime projects, we’re pleased to be working with their team to deliver this significant maritime infrastructure project.

The new pier will complement Hobsons Bay City Council’s Altona Foreshore Redevelopment project, which includes planned upgrades and improvements to activate this vibrant precinct. The Altona Foreshore Redevelopment project is funded by Hobsons Bay City Council and the State Government.

Project timeline

• Schematic designs released: May 2022 completed  

• Detailed designs released and contract awarded: December 2022 completed  

• Materials procurement and preparation for start of works Feb – May 2023 

• Site establishment: May 2023 

• Removal of old Altona Pier and salvage of timber materials: from May 2023 

• Construction of new Altona Pier commences: from May 2023    

• Construction completed and new pier opens:  Late 2023  

Timings are estimated and may be subject to change.

For the latest information about the project, make sure to visit the Altona Pier project page. 

Summer safety when visiting the area

This summer the safety fencing remains in place on the pier to prevent unauthorised access to the structurally unsound areas. 130-metres of the pier approach is open for walking, with the remainder of the pier closed. We’re reminding the community to respect the safety fence and use the area safely. Climbing over the fence is dangerous and unwise. It’s unsafe for you, and unsafe for emergency services if help is needed. If you notice any damage to the safety fence, please contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963.

Above - Deteriorated timber piles at Altona Pier 

Preparing for construction impacts

From May 2022, demolition and construction works will commence including establishing a construction site, and pedestrian and traffic detours and some noise.

To minimise inconveniences and to ensure visitors and businesses are aware of these impacts, we will continue working closely with council and our stakeholder reference group to work through the construction program and expected impacts.  

We’ll also keep you informed and provide more detail on what impacts to expect during construction via the project website and e-newsletters. 

The project

The original timber pier at Altona was built in the late 1800s and is a significant part of Altona’s history. Over the years significant repair works have been carried out but this current structure is now nearing the end of its design life. Maritime conditions and harsh storm conditions can mean aging infrastructure deteriorates more rapidly and the pier was badly damaged in storms in 2020 and 2021.

Since 2020, planning for a new Altona Pier has been underway. Parks Victoria undertook public consultation understand the community’s aspirations for a new pier and the types of activities the new pier should support. Aside from preferred designs, we heard from the community that preserving maritime history and incorporating this into the new pier was important. In May 2022 schematic designs for the new pier were released, translating the community's vision for the new pier into visual plans.

The new pier features a y-shaped head which branches east and west, providing opportunities for a variety of activities, including walking, fishing, boating and swimming. The branched head provides valuable access for emergency vehicles to turn. The lower landing is designed with accessible ramps and the pier head offers multiple vantage points for enjoying spectacular views.

The redevelopment of Altona Pier is funded under the Victorian Government’s $24m Piers and Jetties Economic Stimulus package.