Sewage plant upgrade to boost south west economy

The government has supported the $85 million upgrade of the Warrnambool Sewage Treatment Plant so it can underpin regional growth and investment. 

The project was officially opened today by the Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora, representing the Minister for Water Harriet Shing.  

This is Wannon Water’s largest-ever infrastructure investment and ensures the plant has sufficient capacity for a projected increase in sewage volumes while continuing to protect public health and the environment.  

It has involved the construction of two new treatment tanks which will increase storage capacity by around 50 per cent, a new inlet pump station, chemical dosing and odour control facilities, and an ultra-violet disinfection system.  

The region’s importance as a food industry hub means that demands on the plant are much higher than would normally be expected based purely on population levels.  

The improved infrastructure is estimated to cater for an additional $199 million of annual economic value and 1,512 more jobs in the region by 2040.  

The plant currently services nearly 15,000 houses – a figure expected to increase by more than 80 per cent to 25,000 properties in the next 50 years.  

The upgrade will allow the plant to continue servicing the growing domestic sewage and trade waste needs of Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit.   

In conjunction with the upgrade project, Wannon Water is preparing an Effluent Management Strategy for the plant. The strategy aims to consider the community’s long-term expectations and identify alternatives for the future disposal of effluent from the plant.   

Quotes attributable to Minister for Water, Harriet Shing 

“This project increases the capacity for local services, allowing more homes for Victorians and creating new jobs and opportunities in the area.” 

Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora 

“This upgrade will help secure the region’s future as a popular and attractive region to visit and invest in.” 

Quotes attributable to Wannon Water Board Chair, Dr Helen Scarborough 

“We’re delighted the project has been completed within budget thanks to our dedicated project team, contractors and patience of the treatment operations team.”