The upgraded pier at Seaworks will support ongoing maritime activity in Melbourne’s west.
The project has strengthened the structure, with 90 new steel piles installed – using around 1.7 kilometres of steel to secure the pier’s long-term future.
The low landing has also been rebuilt, alongside essential service upgrades, improving safety and operations. In the coming months, Seaworks will become the new home of Victoria’s heritage fleet – including Enterprize, Alma Doepel and Wattle.
These vessels will berth at Workshops Pier, giving locals and visitors direct access to Victoria’s maritime history. Built in 1942,
Workshops Pier remains the only public port facility in the inner city capable of accommodating large vessels. It remains the primary berthing site for visiting tall ships, as well as small commercial and historic vessels.
Following the upgrade, the pier can now accommodate vessels up to 75 metres on the eastern side and up to 20 metres on the western side.
These works are part of the Allan Labor Government’s $46 million investment in piers and jetties across the state, including upgrades at St Leonards, Dromana and Warneet. Victoria’s local ports and piers contribute more than $900 million annually to the economy, supporting tourism, marine industries and local jobs.
“We’ve rebuilt Workshops Pier so it can continue to welcome ships and visitors for decades to come.”
“This is about protecting a key piece of Victoria’s maritime history and as the local member for Williamstown, I am incredibly excited for our community and the maritime tourism the Heritage Fleet will bring to our community.”
“We know how important our piers are to local communities – and this upgrade ensures Workshops Pier can be enjoyed long into the future.”
“With the restoration of Workshops Pier we are able to provide a new home to Victoria’s heritage fleet, and one day welcome tall ships back to Seaworks.”
“Seeing these historic vessels silhouetted against the modern Melbourne skyline will capture the meeting of old and new, reflecting the essence of Seaworks as a contemporary precinct for maritime heritage.”
“The completion of the new pier and the relocation of the maritime heritage fleet mark a significant milestone for Seaworks and the Williamstown waterfront. As Victoria’s official tall ship, Enterprize is proud to be part of this next chapter in showcasing our state’s rich maritime heritage.”
“This facility at Seaworks is a tremendous tourist attraction for the West — enhancing public access, supporting education and tourism, and strengthening Williamstown’s role as a living gateway to Victoria’s maritime story.”
