Improving Access To Victoria’s Amazing Coastline

The Andrews Labor Government is investing in safer and improved access to our coastline, to ensure we’re protecting our environment and encouraging more people to get out and enjoy Victoria’s coastline.

Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt today announced the successful recipients of the $1.1 million Coastal Public Access and Risk Grants program for 2022-23.

The grants will support 16 projects across Victoria and deliver vital safety and access works, including:

• beach access improvements at Ocean Grove, Marengo, Warrnambool, Sandy Point, Seaspray, Phillip Island, Parkdale, Middle Park and Blairgowrie
• safety upgrades to the concrete ramp used by Lorne Pier to Pub for water access by over 5,000 swimmers, by repairing the concrete surface and installing secure non-slip matting and signage
• new signage and safety information to help prevent drownings at Phillip Island Nature Parks beaches
• safety assessments and planning work for future improvements at Corio Bay, Walkerville, Dromana and Whitecliffs

Victoria’s coastline is dynamic and constantly changing and these grants ensure they can adapt and infrastructure can be upgraded to ensure Victorians can continue to access their favourite beaches safely.

Funds are available through this program for projects such as risk assessment and management plans for safer access, repair or replacement of paths, stairways, boardwalks and access ramps, installation and improvement of public safety signage and access barriers as well as viewing platforms and lookouts.

Since 2014, more than $140 million has been invested into marine and coastal environmental projects to deliver a long-term, strategic approach to build resilience in our marine and coastal areas and adapt Victoria’s coastal areas to climate change.

For more information on the grants and to see full list of grant recipients, visit marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/grants/coastal-public-access-and-risk-grants

Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt

“These important projects will make it easier and safer for the community to access our spectacular coastline.”

“The marine and coastal environment is regularly changing due to the impacts of climate change, so it’s critical that we work together to identify and mitigate risks so our coastline can be protected for generations to come.”