Improvements to Tourism Infrastructure at Kennett River

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Project background

Upgrades to the Kennett River Precinct are underway to enhance public access, improve infrastructure, and support a more resilient and sustainable visitor environment. 

Community engagement for the project has now concluded, following extensive consultation that informed planning and design development at Kennett River.  

With planning and design nearing completion, the project moves into construction and delivery phases. 

Please check this webpage for construction updates, any changes to access, and key milestone announcements. 

If you would like to read through previous engagement materials or learn more about the consultation process, please visit the project’s Have Your Say page.

For general enquiries or to stay informed, contact: 

info@greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au 

1300 736 533 

Key project information

The project will support the growing tourism and visitor economy by delivering public infrastructure and accessibility improvements through several initiatives.

The tourism improvements will include;

  • A new public toilet and a new or upgraded wastewater treatment plant in the adjoining Kennett River Caravan Park; and
  • Car park and road improvements works

The revised location of the toilets and wastewater treatment plant to within the Kennett River Caravan Park will ensure maintenance efficiencies, improve traffic flow and safety within the precinct.

One of the design principles for the project was to include traffic management features that will discourage large coaches from entering the local road network into Kennett River, providing parking for small tour buses and promote safer pedestrian movement and driver behaviour.

Another key objective of the project is that new facilities are appropriate to Kennett River’s size and unique character, retaining open space areas, and views and access to Kennett River.

 Project Updates
15 July 2026
 
Experienced construction company Fulton Hogan has been appointed to deliver public open space, traffic and parking improvements in Kennett River, with works underway next week. 
Selected through a competitive tender process, Fulton Hogan brings a strong track record in delivery of projects of this kind across the region and will support local jobs during construction.
Upgrades to the Kennett River Precinct will enhance public access, improve visitor infrastructure, and support a more resilient and sustainable local environment. 
The project has been shaped by extensive community engagement and includes.
  • New and improved public open spaces and landscaping
  • Car park, road and pedestrian path upgrades to improve traffic flow, boost safety and effectively prevent multiple large coaches from parking in the precinct
  • A new public toilet building and upgraded wastewater treatment plant 
All the new facilities are appropriate to Kennett River’s size and unique character, retaining open space areas, views and public access to Kennett River as well as water sensitive urban design landscaping, rainwater capture and greywater use.
Key information: 
  • Construction will begin 20th July, with completion by September 2026
  • The project will begin with the installation of the wastewater treatment plant in the caravan park, which will remain closed until just prior to the September school holidays. People with bookings during this time are being offered spots at our nearby parks and we have engaged with annual permit holders
  • The precinct in front of the café and the river walk picnic area will also be closed during works in those areas (20th July - September). Fencing will be installed around the worksite to ensure safety
  • Hawdon Avenue and Grey River Road will remain open, with traffic management to ensure safety
  • Speed restrictions along the Great Ocean Road will be in place
  • A public toilet will be made available in the caravan park for visitors to the beach area
  • The same limited Australia Post services will be available from the caravan park kitchen at certain times