Cleanaway proposes upgrade to modernise Melbourne waste transfer facility

Cleanaway has proposed a major redevelopment of its Dynon Road Waste Transfer Station in West Melbourne, outlining plans to modernise the ageing facility to support Melbourne’s future waste and recycling needs, according to a project fact sheet.

The proposed upgrade would replace the existing waste transfer station with a modern facility and an upgraded Community Recycling Centre, with the aim of improving operational efficiency, environmental management and safety. 

The project is backed by financing from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and a $10 million contribution from the City of Melbourne.

According to the fact sheet, the Dynon Road facility has long been part of Melbourne’s waste management network, supporting waste collection, recycling and resource recovery services across central Melbourne and surrounding municipalities. 

Cleanaway said the upgraded facility would remain on the existing site and be constructed in stages so waste services can continue throughout the works.

The fact sheet states that the redevelopment is intended to modernise ageing infrastructure, improve environmental, safety and operational controls, enhance recycling and resource recovery opportunities, and support more efficient waste handling. 

Once completed, the facility is proposed to process up to 400,000 tonnes of waste annually to meet current and future demand across Melbourne’s central areas.

Planned upgrades include a new enclosed waste transfer station building, upgraded vehicle access and weighbridges, improved internal roads and drainage, a dedicated community recycling centre, new fire protection infrastructure, and landscaping and environmental improvements. 

The fact sheet says the site’s location within an established industrial and freight precinct enables efficient waste consolidation before material is transported to recycling, treatment and disposal facilities.

Cleanaway said planning and environmental assessments are underway, with studies examining traffic, noise, air quality, stormwater, fire risk, landscaping, land and groundwater, and other environmental and operational matters. 

The proposal will be assessed through the Victorian planning and environmental approvals process, including consultation with the City of Melbourne and EPA Victoria.

The project timeline outlined in the fact sheet indicates planning, environmental investigations and community engagement will continue through 2026, with approvals expected to extend into 2027. 

Subject to approvals, staged construction is anticipated to begin in 2027 and continue for approximately 24 months, with no shutdown of existing waste services expected during the construction period.

Cleanaway is also inviting community feedback on the proposal through information sessions and an online webinar as part of the planning process.