Melburnians can once again stroll along one of the city’s most storied waterfront landmarks, with Station Pier reopening to the public for the first time since 2020 following a major maintenance program.
The revitalisation ensures the iconic Port Melbourne pier -which welcomes around 50,000 cruise passengers and crew each year – remains operational for years to come.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said the reopening was “welcome news for Victorians, particularly the community and recreational fishers eager to enjoy what the pier has to offer.”
Station Pier will now be open to the public on weekends and public holidays during daylight hours, with access restricted while maintenance continues during the week. Locals and visitors will be able to walk the length of the pier or fish from its southern end whenever ships are not in port.
The works focused on preserving the heritage-listed structure while preparing it for the demands of modern cruise operations. Upgrades included refurbishing the pier’s historic gatehouse, reinforcing structural pylons, improving corrosion protection, upgrading electrical systems, and renewing the wharf deck.
Public access is limited to the central walkway leading to the pier’s southern end, with an accessible entry point for vehicles also provided.
Station Pier has long been a gateway to Victoria, serving as both a cruise terminal and a community landmark. It houses two terminal buildings, a gatehouse, a former railway station and a small kiosk – remnants of its deep maritime history.
The government says it is working with key agencies on a long-term plan for the pier’s future, aiming to balance heritage preservation with the needs of the growing cruise industry.
Station Pier will remain open to the public across summer weekends and public holidays, weather permitting.
