Thursday, 11 September 2025

 Melissa HORNE (Williamstown – Minister for Ports and Freight, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Minister for Health Infrastructure) (10:33): Last weekend the deputy mayor of Hobsons Bay City Council Rayane Hawli and I popped down to see the newly upgraded Altona foreshore, and it looks incredible. On the Esplanade between Bent Street and Pier Street, this section is now pedestrian-only access. There are a heap of new seatings, there are shaded areas and there is the most beautiful water playground, which I saw a couple of kids enjoying, even though the weather was not particularly warm. In addition, there are new public showers, new lighting, and fantastic signage that really celebrates Altona Beach. The new pedestrian area will also improve safety for people crossing from the car park to the lifesaving club and the shopping precinct. This is stage 2 of the development, thanks to a $5.8 million grant from the state Labor government. This builds on the previous investment of $5.8 million also to upgrade Weaver and Logan reserves a few years ago.

But let us not forget the incredible rebuilding of Altona Pier, which was opened over a year ago. This $12 million investment has made a lasting difference to our community. On top of that, we have committed funding towards improving pedestrian safety on Pier Street and Blyth Street, with the installation of raised pedestrian crossings. I am proud to be part of a government that has invested millions of dollars into making Altona an even more beautiful part of the world, and now it is in its best shape to host a long summer of fun – safer, smarter, cooler and more beautiful than ever.