State Government names Australian Education City as preferred developer for East Werribee

A WATERFRONT precinct with skyscrapers reminiscent of Docklands could be created in Melbourne’s west under bold plans backed by the State Government.

East Werribee artist's impression from preferred bidder Australian Education City consortium

A WATERFRONT precinct with skyscrapers reminiscent of Docklands could be created in East Werribee under bold plans backed by the State Government.

The Government today announced the Australian Education City consortium as its preferred developer for a 400 ha section of the suburb which includes the town centre, jobs and education precincts.

East Werribee, as a whole, will create 58,000 jobs and have 7000 homes. The AEC plans include 50-level skyscrapers, a lakeside entertainment precinct and hubs for hi-tech industries and education. A mix of apartments, townhouses and houses are earmarked for the site.

A network of “smart underground tunnels and carparks” and a high-frequency transit system are planned.

The plans will now go through a rigorous approval process before the Government signs off on a contract.

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An artist's impression from preferred bidder Australian Education City consortium.

An AEC spokesman said the consortium was pleased to be selected as the preferred bidder.

“We will now be focusing on the next phase of this exciting project that we believe has significant benefits for the Wyndham community,” he said.

Wyndham Mayor Adele Hegedich said the council welcomed the “significant progression” of the development of the site.

“It’s fantastic to see such a bold and exciting concept as the Australian Education City which will see thousands of high quality jobs created and has the potential to transform not only Wyndham, but Melbourne and Victoria,” Cr Hegedich said.

“The confidence and enthusiasm in Werribee shown by the proponents of the proposal confirms our position as the capital of Melbourne’s new west.”

Finance Minister Robin Scott said the Government was following strict probity and due diligence in the market process to ensure the final proposal provided the best outcome for the local community and value for Victorian taxpayers.

“The development of East Werribee would be a potentially significant investment in Melbourne’s west and a boost for Victoria’s economy,” Mr Scott said.