A re-elected Albanese Government will commit $400,000 to complete the redevelopment of the Port Phillip EcoCentre in St Kilda Botanic Gardens, enhancing its capacity to deliver sustainability programs and strengthen community resilience against climate change.
The Port Phillip EcoCentre has been a hub for environmental education and action since 1999, engaging over 19,000 participants each year and providing short courses and events for school students and locals. But the centre has outgrown its current building.
This election commitment will help deliver a new $7.1 million EcoCentre, in partnership with the City of Port Phillip and the Victorian Government.
This investment will enable the fit-out of the new building, ensuring it functions as a fully equipped community hub for nature wellbeing and climate initiatives. The new facility is designed to operate with net zero energy and low water usage.
It will have a 6 Star Green Star Design and As Built Rating and will provide a leading example of environmentally sustainable design.
It will also offer a larger space for the community to book and include Australia’s first Citizen Science Lab. The redevelopment of the EcoCentre will provide:
A modernised facility that balances contemporary design with heritage elements.
Functional, multi-use spaces to support a range of community activities.
Expansion of EcoCentre programs and services to educate and empower more people.
Best-practice sustainable design and construction methods.
Improved circulation and accessibility within the centre.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Comments attributable to Josh Burns MP, Member for Macnamara:
“The eco-centre is the heart of community-led climate action, sustainability and education in Port Phillip.
“I have seen firsthand just how valuable their work is in protecting our precious natural environment and providing opportunities for the whole community to take real climate action.
“While the building is nearly finished, this investment will go towards filling this upgraded community hub with all the equipment it needs to house Australia’s first Citizen Science Lab.
“I am so proud to support the EcoCentre who will continue to be leading example for the whole community long into the future. “
Comments attributable to Jan Cossar, EcoCentre President:
"At a time when Australians are increasingly seeking tangible ways to make a difference, the EcoCentre will now be more ready than ever to equip everyone to take action."
