A peek behind the scenes at Altona Recycled Water Plant

Greater Western Water’s Altona Recycled Water Plant and its unique land art, A Forest for Australia, will once again open for public tours in July as part of Open House Melbourne 2026.

It’s the third year in a row that GWW has been part of the popular Open House Melbourne program, which provides people access to places and spaces not typically open to the public.

GWW’s General Manager of Service Delivery, Jodie Hallam, said previous tours of the recycled water plant as part of Open House Melbourne drew an engaged crowd interested in learning more about future-focused greening and community partnerships.

“We’re proud to once again open our doors at the Altona Recycled Water Plant and take people on an expert-led journey of the facility and its surrounds,” she said.

Altona Recycled Water Plant

“Where else would you get to see firsthand how recycled water is made, get to understand why it’s such a valuable alternative water source, as well as take a walking tour of the remarkable Agnes Denes environmental artwork next to it?”

The tour includes opportunities to learn about how GWW’s wastewater services have evolved over time - from basic treatment though to recycled water solutions that support future water needs and challenges.

Each stop on the tour of the plant - including A Forest For Australia - invites visitors to think critically about environmental stewardship and adaptability.

“Crucially, visitors walk away with a greater appreciation of how caring for our precious water and land resources is a shared responsibility,” Ms Hallam said.

“What we flush effects our pipes, our treatment systems, and ultimately the health of our environment. And in a drying climate where every drop of water counts, we know recycled water and alternative sources of water will have a big part to play in ensuring everyone in future has access to safe, reliable water and green spaces.”

Eight one-hour tours of the plant as part of Open House Melbourne will take place across Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July, capped at 20 people per tour.

The tours are free to attend but bookings are essential, with a small booking fee to secure your place. For tickets, which are available from 1 July, visit Greater Western Water: A Forest for Australia and Altona Treatment Plant.

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