Australia's state of Victoria has officially opened an AUD 85 million (about USD 61 million) upgrade to the Warrnambool Sewage Treatment Plant, marking the largest infrastructure investment in the history of Wannon Water, the regional utility responsible for water and sewerage services across south west Victoria.
The expanded facility, which serves nearly 15,000 properties across Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit, has been designed to accommodate a projected rise in both domestic sewage and trade waste volumes as the region continues to grow. Over the next 50 years, the number of connected properties is expected to climb by more than 80 per cent, reaching approximately 25,000.
Key works included the construction of two new treatment tanks, increasing storage capacity by roughly 50 per cent, alongside a new inlet pump station, chemical dosing and odour control systems, and an ultraviolet disinfection facility.
Beyond residential demand, the plant plays a critical role supporting the region's established food processing and agricultural industries, which generate wastewater volumes far exceeding what population figures alone would suggest. The upgraded infrastructure is projected to support an additional AUD 199 million in annual economic output and more than 1,500 new jobs by 2040.
The opening was attended by Victorian state MP Jacinta Ermacora, representing state Minister for Water Harriet Shing, who stated: "This project increases the capacity for local services, allowing more homes for Victorians and creating new jobs and opportunities in the area."
Wannon Water Board Chair Dr Helen Scarborough highlighted the operational achievement: "We're delighted the project has been completed within budget thanks to our dedicated project team, contractors and patience of the treatment operations team."
In parallel with the upgrade, Wannon Water is developing an Effluent Management Strategy to evaluate long-term disposal alternatives and align future operations with community expectations.
