Major recycled water upgrade moves into early design phase for Melbourne’s growing north
Published 28 July 2026
The new, purpose-built recycled water facility in Wollert will increase treatment capacity from 2.9 million litres per day to 10 million litres per day, supporting the future housing growth expected over the next 2 decades, while reducing demand on Melbourne's drinking water supplies.
Following a competitive tender process, John Holland has been appointed to deliver the early design phase for the project. The contract is valued at approximately $5 million.
Yarra Valley Water General Manager Asset Services, Bridie Fennessy, said as Melbourne's north continues to grow rapidly, the project is an important investment in the infrastructure needed to support future communities while enabling more sustainable water use.
"Moving into the early design phase is a significant milestone that will help ensure we can continue providing reliable recycled water services for growing communities, reducing demand on Melbourne's drinking water supplies and supporting more sustainable water use,” Ms Fennessy said.
“Our existing Wollert plant has served the community for more than 15 years. This upgrade will significantly increase its capacity so it can continue supporting growth for decades to come.”
“John Holland brings strong technical expertise in delivering major infrastructure projects, and we’re pleased to work in partnership on such an important facility. Their appointment to lead the early design will help shape a modern, efficient facility that supports future growth and long-term reliability.”
John Holland Executive General Manager Infrastructure Andy Hunter said the delivery team was looking forward to working with Yarra Valley Water on the project.
"We're looking forward to working closely with Yarra Valley Water to deliver an innovative recycled water facility that will support this growing community," Mr Hunter said.
"John Holland brings a deep legacy and expertise in Class A treatment projects that help new communities thrive from day one."
The upgraded facility will be built alongside the existing treatment plant site in Wollert, which will continue operating throughout the design and construction phases to ensure uninterrupted recycled water services.
Once commissioned, the upgraded facility will support supplying all new homes in the Northern Growth Area to be connected to recycled water.
Recycled water helps households reduce drinking water use by around 25 per cent by supplying for toilet flushing, garden watering, car washing and laundry.
Using recycled water for these everyday purposes helps preserve Melbourne's high quality drinking water supplies for where they are needed most.
With the tender now awarded, the project will move into the early design phase. The new facility is expected to be commissioned in approximately four years.
For more information about the new recycled water facility in Wollert, head to: https://www.yvw.com.au/faults-works/planned-works/works-my-area/recycled-water-facility-wollert