Portsea Pier will temporarily close from July 2026 as major maintenance works begin to restore and strengthen the popular Mornington Peninsula landmark after significant storm damage in 2024.
Emergency repairs carried out following the storms helped stabilise the structure in the short term, but larger works are now required to improve safety and ensure the historic pier can continue operating well into the future.
The staged project will begin at the pier entrance, with authorities warning that the entire structure will need to close while works are underway. A marine exclusion zone will also be introduced around the pier for public safety, with temporary changes expected to nearby pedestrian and vehicle access during the construction period.
Parks Victoria says the repairs are designed to help the pier better withstand harsh marine conditions and future weather events, which continue to place pressure on coastal infrastructure across Victoria.
The closure will affect mooring holders and tour operators who regularly use the pier, although Parks Victoria says it will work closely with operators to arrange alternative nearby berthing options while construction takes place. Some sections of the pier may reopen progressively for licensed operators later in the project, pending safety approvals.
The works are expected to finish before summer 2026, weather permitting.
While Portsea Pier is closed, visitors are being encouraged to explore nearby alternatives including Sorrento Pier and Rye Pier, both popular for fishing, walking, diving and snorkelling across Port Phillip Bay.
