Progress has been made to return the historic Williamstown Mechanics Institute to its role as an important community building following Council's May 2026 meeting.
Councillors approved the recommendation that one of Williamstown's oldest and most historic buildings continue as a Council asset, and supported proposals included in a feasibility review and business case recently undertaken.
Councillors unanimously passed the motion to determine the historic building's future, which has been vacant since 2018 due to deterioration and safety concerns.
The endorsed review proposes essential repairs, compliance upgrades and baseline refurbishment and retaining the existing built form.
These proposed works would allow the main hall to operate as a flexible small-scale rehearsal and black box style theatre, would re-establish the Williamstown Historical Society as a tenant, enable the museum and other operations, and have the capacity for independent hire, ensuring a diversity of community use.
Initial cost estimates stand at about $13 million for the restoration works.
The project was highlighted in Council's recently endorsed advocacy plan as a priority, with Council to engage state and federal governments for funding opportunities.
The Williamstown Mechanics Institute is one of the most significant heritage buildings in Hobsons Bay, with staged construction beginning more than 160 years ago in 1860.
With the feasibility review now endorsed, Council will progress with concept and schematic design and continue to engage with stakeholders through the process.
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Diana Grima:
"I'm thrilled that after years of uncertainty, we are now able to make progress with restoring the Williamstown Mechanics Institute.
"This is a terrific step in the right direction for what is one of Hobsons Bay's most historic buildings.
"We have heard from our community just how much this building means to them. I look forward to continuing to hear from them as we move forward with this important project."
