St Kilda Pier reopens: A new chapter for an iconic landmark

    Published 11 December 2024
    The St Kilda Pier redevelopment is now complete, with the newly renovated pier officially open to the public after two years of extensive upgrade works by the Victorian Government.

    The transformation of the iconic pier includes a spectacular curved walkway, tiered seating, additional toilets, and a new community space near the famous St Kilda Pier Kiosk.

    The 450-metre-long pier offers a safer, more accessible space for residents and tourists, with incredible views of the city skyline and the bay.

    Works to remove the old pier have now commenced and expected to take six months. During this time, access to the low landing will remain closed.

    The reopening coincides with an announcement by the Federal Government to help fund our plans to upgrade the foreshore precinct surrounding St Kilda Pier, as well as the St Kilda Adventure Playground Upgrade under its Thriving Suburbs funding program.

    Both of Council’s submissions to the Thriving Suburbs funding program were successful, securing more than $3.6 million for two key infrastructure projects. These grants include:

    $2.6 million for the St Kilda Pier (Landside) Foreshore Upgrade Stage 2

    This funding will enable the next stage of works to extend the pier, foreshore, and promenade to connect with Jacka Boulevard.

    Stage 2 of the redevelopment project will create a safer and more accessible space for pedestrians and cyclists by linking Jacka Boulevard to the new pier and foreshore precinct. This upgraded space is set to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. 

    $1.02 million for the St Kilda Adventure Playground Upgrade

    This funding will support our plans to upgrade the St Kilda Adventure Playground, making it more accessible and better suited for community needs. The improvements will focus on accessible play infrastructure, fostering stronger community cohesion and liveability.

    Construction is expected to begin in mid-2025, with a community celebration event planned to farewell the old playground equipment.

    Additionally, the Australian National Memorial Theatre Ltd was awarded $591,924 in funding to revitalise the historic National Theatre in St Kilda.

    This project will include upgrades to seating, lift, lighting and amenities to improve safety and accessibility. It will also support the local arts community, from ballet and drama schools to amateur and professional theatre, enhancing civic pride and encouraging greater community participation.

    The Federal Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program is a targeted initiative aimed at improving community spaces, boosting local economies, and enhancing the quality of life in suburban areas.

    To learn more about how our Council advocates to the Federal Government and Victorian Government, visit our Advocacy page.