About the project

This FAQ page provides information for the community about the Port Arthur Water and Sewage Infrastructure Upgrades Project and addresses common questions about the proposed works.

Project background

  • The project will replace ageing water and sewage infrastructure across the Port Arthur Historic Site and surrounding areas. This includes upgrades to the water treatment plant and sewage treatment plant, both of which are located within the Port Arthur Historic Site precinct, as well as several major pipelines in the surrounding area. The system is currently at capacity and does not meet modern standards. The upgrade will ensure safe, reliable services for the next 30 years.

  • The project is being delivered by the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA) and is funded by the Tasmanian Government. The works are aligned with a TasWater feasibility study and will be designed to meet TasWater’s standards, enabling the upgraded water and sewage system to be transferred to TasWater ownership in the future.

  • The current system is old, operating at full capacity, and no longer meets current industry and environmental standards. Upgrades are essential to:

    • improve reliability and performance

    • meet environmental requirements

    • support future growth in tourism and the local population

    • protect heritage and environmental values

    • enable future transfer of the infrastructure to TasWater

  • Works will occur across several locations, including:

    • Port Arthur Historic Site – upgrades to water and sewage treatment plants

    • Garden Point – new treated water pipeline

    • Stewarts Bay – new sewage rising main and pump station connections

    • Upper and Lower Dams (Nubeena Road) – replacement of the raw water pipeline

    • McGinnis Dam – planning and design for a future pipeline connection

Planning & timing

  • The project is currently in the design phase. Throughout this phase, PAHSMA will work directly with affected landowners to understand property‑specific needs, discuss access requirements, and ensure the design responds appropriately to individual circumstances. Key planning, design and approvals processes are expected to progress through 2026.

  • Construction is expected to begin in early 2027, following completion of the design and approvals process, and will be carefully planned to minimise disruption for residents, businesses and visitors. Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority will notify the community prior to any work commencing.

  • All works within the Port Arthur Historic Site must comply with strict heritage, environmental and archaeological requirements. Designs and construction methods will be carefully managed to avoid or minimise impacts on the historic landscape, buildings, flora and fauna.

  • Engagement will occur with Aboriginal organisations and heritage specialists to ensure cultural values are respected. Any ground disturbance will follow legal requirements, an avoidance‑first approach, and a clear process for managing unanticipated discoveries.

  • The project will follow environmental regulations and best‑practice construction methods to protect:

    ·          sensitive flora and fauna

    ·          coastal and foreshore areas

    ·          water quality

    ·          archaeological deposits

    ·          nearby residents and visitors

for locals

  • Some properties may experience impacts during design or construction, including:

    ·          temporary access restrictions

    ·          short‑term noise or activity from machinery

    ·          site visits or surveys

    ·          works within or near property boundaries (where pipeline upgrades are required)

    Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority will meet with directly affected landowners individually to discuss property‑specific needs, access, timing and reinstatement.

  • Any temporary interruptions will be communicated in advance. The project has been designed to maintain essential services wherever possible.

  • Some temporary access changes may be required, especially along Nubeena Road and local access points in Stewarts Bay and Garden Point. Traffic management plans will be developed to minimise disruption.

  • It is anticipated that the upgraded infrastructure will be designed with capacity to support potential future connections. However, the project is still in the early stages of design and no decisions have been made about new connections.

Further information

  • If your property is within the project area or may be affected by access or works, the engagement team will contact you directly to discuss details specific to your property.

  • Regular updates will be provided throughout the project, including community notifications and letters, drop‑in information sessions, updates on the project webpage, and ongoing engagement with affected landowners.

  • To provide feedback or find out more about this project, please contact our project team by:

    ·          Phone: 03 6165 0443

    ·          Email: engagement@era‑advisory.com.au

Project timeline

  • Decks and Patios icon

    May 2026

    Community drop-in sessions around Port Arthur

  • Mid 2026

    Stakeholder and community engagement to progress detailed design and pipeline alignment

  • Outdoor Spaces icon

    By the end of 2026

    Development applications lodged with Tasman Council

  • Custom Additions icon

    Early 2027

    Anticipated construction commencement for upgrades and related road works

  • Green Building icon

    Mid 2028

    Anticipated construction completion