A YEAR IN REVIEW: GROWTH, ADVOCACY, AND CONNECTION
It’s been a standout year for the Fishermans Bend Business Forum. With thanks to our dedicated voluntary committee, Linda, Mark, Marcus, David, and new members Peter and Hannah, we’ve strengthened connections, grown our network, and elevated the voice of local business. I’m proud to announce our new leadership team:
President – Guy Naselli
Vice President – Linda Norman
Secretary – Mark Fulcher
Treasurer – Marcus Henry
Throughout 2025, we’ve continued to advocate strongly at all levels of government, hosted well-attended events and tours that spotlighted local businesses and investment opportunities. A major milestone this year was the first-ever commitment of Federal funding towards transport planning in Fishermans Bend, an important step forward as we continue to push for better mobility and infrastructure in the precinct.
With strong momentum behind us, we’re excited for the year ahead and remain focused on ensuring Fishermans Bend continues to grow as a vibrant, connected, and thriving business community. We’re actively welcoming new members, committee participants, and corporate partners. If you’re interested in making a meaningful impact, supporting precinct-wide initiatives, or simply staying better connected, now is the time to get involved. Reach out to explore how you can get involved and help shape what’s next for Fishermans Bend.
Melbourne Cement Facilities Advances Sustainable Construction with New GreenCem™ System at Port Melbourne Terminal
Fishermans Bend Business Forum platinum sponsor Melbourne Cement Facilities (MCF), together with Cement Australia, is investing in a new GreenCem™ dosing system at the 26 South Wharf Bulk Terminal in Port Melbourne, with silo footings poured last week. Developed with Holcim Australia, GreenCem™ was first used in the Yitpi Yartapuultiku Cultural Centre in Port Adelaide Enfield to reduce embodied carbon by replacing up to 80% of traditional cement with locally sourced industrial by-products, maintaining performance. This innovation supports the industry’s net zero carbon goals and is now available for bulk commercial use and retail through selected distributors.
Construction Begins at Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct
The Victorian Government has announced that Stage 1 construction is now underway at the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct, a major step in the long-term development of the former General Motors Holden site. Works will deliver new roads, a public park, and infrastructure to support future investment in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and design, including a new east-west link between Salmon Street and Todd Road. The project aligns with the University of Melbourne’s new School of Engineering and Design, opening in 2026, and includes smart poles to boost 5G, Wi-Fi, and EV charging. While planning is reportedly underway for tram and rail connections, we urge this to remain a key focus. Expanded bus services have improved access, but long-term transport solutions are essential to support the precinct’s growth.
Fishermans Bend Businesses Awarded Defence Industry Grants
Two Fishermans Bend-based companies have been named among the recipients of the Federal Government’s new Defence Industry Development Grants program, which has allocated $16.5 million across 50 Australian businesses to bolster defence manufacturing, skills, and national security capability. Advanced Composite Structures Australia and SYPAQ Systems—both headquartered in Fishermans Bend—received grants under the program’s first round. Advanced Composite Structures was awarded funding to advance automation in the production of underwater drone components, while SYPAQ Systems will support technical education in cyber and radar operations through the skilling stream. The grants are part of a broader national initiative by the Department of Defence to support sovereign industrial priorities, exports, training, and security, with funding matched 50:50 and available through to 2028.
Fishermans Bend, So Close But Yet So Far
Fishermans Bend is so close to the city, yet so far. The long awaited tram extensions are critical to housing up to 80,000 people within Fishermans Bend and are seen as an urgent priority by Infrastructure Victoria. City of Port Phillip Councillor Alex Makin recently appeared on ABC News discussing the lack of public transport and the impact it has on the future vision of Fishermans Bend.
Fishermans Bend Leading the Advance of Australia’s Defence Capabilities
As Australia faces an increasingly complex security environment, collaboration between universities, government, and industry is essential. The University of Melbourne’s future campus at Fishermans Bend will be a key driver of this collaboration, bringing together researchers, defence scientists, and industry partners to address national security challenges through advanced manufacturing, engineering, and design. With proximity to the Defence Science and Technology Group and a growing innovation ecosystem, Fishermans Bend is uniquely positioned to support the development and commercialisation of emerging technologies critical to Australia’s sovereign capabilities and global competitiveness. Read the article in The Australian at the link below.
Defence Challenges Students’ STEM Skills
High school students from across Victoria recently took part in STEM to the Rescue, a five-day Defence Work Experience Program that gave them hands-on exposure to Australia’s defence, APS, and industry capabilities. As part of the program, students visited the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) in Fishermans Bend, where they explored cutting-edge technologies including augmented reality and drone systems, and engaged with the scientists shaping Australia’s defence future.
City of Port Phillip Advocates for Key Community Projects Ahead of Federal Election
The Australian federal election on 3 May 2025 presents a vital opportunity for the City of Port Phillip to secure government support for key infrastructure projects that will enhance transport, housing, and public spaces. A key focus is unlocking the potential of Fishermans Bend by advocating for Melbourne Metro 2 and an expanded tram network. These essential transport links will better connect Fishermans Bend to the wider city, attracting investment, supporting businesses, and fostering a thriving community. Read on to learn more about the advocacy efforts shaping the future of our city.
Plan the urban forest in your neighbourhood
A thriving urban forest is key to creating a liveable, sustainable city—and Fishermans Bend is no exception. As part of the City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest Precinct Plans, the community now has a chance to provide input on how greenery will be integrated into Australia’s largest urban renewal project. While planning in this precinct is led by the Victorian Government’s Fishermans Bend Taskforce, residents and businesses can still have their say through the city’s consultation process. Help shape the future of Fishermans Bend’s green spaces by sharing your feedback today.
