TasWater is preparing to commence the Selfs Point Sewer Transformation Project, marking the largest sewerage infrastructure investment in the history of Hobart, the capital of the state of Tasmania. The AUD 314 million (about USD 215 million) initiative aims to overhaul the city's sewage management system, improving environmental health and supporting future urban development.
The transformation involves three projects: upgrading the existing plant at Selfs Point to handle additional volume, removing the treatment plant and installing a pump station and emergency storage at Macquarie Point, and constructing a 4.3-kilometre transfer pipeline between the two sites.
The initiative is a collaboration between TasWater and the Tasmanian Government, with the state contributing AUD 224 million and TasWater investing AUD 90 million. TasWater will also invest an additional AUD 66 million in upgrades to the Selfs Point site, preparing for the future removal of three sewage treatment plants along the Derwent River.
The project is set to have a major positive impact on Hobart’s environment and infrastructure. By retiring the Macquarie Point treatment plant and transferring sewage to Selfs Point, 132 tonnes of nutrients will be removed from the Derwent River annually, reducing the environmental impact by 50%. Additionally, the transformation will unlock network capacity for 8,000 new homes, with the potential for expansion to accommodate 20,000 more homes as Hobart grows.
General Manager Project Delivery Tony Willmott emphasized the long-term benefits, despite some short-term disruptions during construction. “There will be some short-term inconveniences for Hobartians, particularly during the construction of the pipeline, but the benefits will far outweigh them,” he said.
The project is expected to create 3,420 direct and indirect jobs and generate AUD 1.1 billion in economic activity for Tasmania. To keep the community informed, TasWater has launched an engagement plan, ensuring residents and businesses are aware of construction progress and any potential disruptions.
TasWater is investing AUD 1.9 billion across its asset portfolio over the coming five years to ensure it can continue to deliver outstanding water and sewerage services.
