Barwon Water has been developing a concept design and business case for a wastewater management solution for the Forrest township. We are now awaiting the release of the Draft Great Ocean Road Strategic Framework Plan (SFP) by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to inform our planning.

DEECA’s Strategic Framework Plan will provide an overarching regional view of land use planning for the Great Ocean Road region, linking state planning policies and strategies, including Plan for Victoria, with other regional and local strategies. It will provide clear direction, enable consistent decision making and streamline planning approvals for the Great Ocean Road region.

The contents of the Draft SFP may influence the project scope and assumptions, and so it will be a key input for the development of a business case, economic assessment, and concept design for the project. We anticipate the release of the report in late 2025 / early 2026.

We remain committed to progressing the planning work for this project. Next steps will involve developing a detailed business case which includes an updated economic assessment and updated customer demand and infrastructure sizing to meet this demand. Subject to an approved business case and customer and community support, the project is expected to commence before 2028. We will continue to keep the community informed of project updates as it progresses.