Construction tender awarded to bring Ballarat Regional Animal Facility to life

The City of Ballarat has awarded the construction tender for the new Ballarat Regional Animal Facility to local contractor H. Troon Pty Ltd, following a decision at the May Council Meeting last night.

The project will deliver a modern, purpose-built facility at Waringa Drive, Mitchell Park, supporting animal care services across Ballarat and Western Victoria.  

The $14.5 million facility is jointly funded, with $11.5 million from the Victorian Government and $3 million from the City of Ballarat.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development, Michaela Settle said the project would significantly strengthen regional animal welfare services.

“The Ballarat Regional Animal Facility will give Western Victoria a fit-for-purpose building to support cats and dogs in need,” she said.

“This newly-built facility will give animal care staff a modern workplace to care for up to 2500 to 3000 animals per year.”

Construction is expected to commence in the second half of 2026, with an anticipated completion date in late 2027.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said awarding the tender marked a key step in delivering a long-awaited community priority.

“This is a major milestone for Ballarat and a significant step towards delivering a facility that meets the needs of our growing region,” she said.

“We’re proud to be working with H. Troon to deliver a contemporary facility that supports best practice animal care and our dedicated staff and volunteers.

“The design of this facility recognises that while shelters play a critical role, the best outcome for animals is always a timely return home or transition to a new one.

“By improving functionality, efficiency and animal wellbeing, this facility will help support more positive outcomes and reduce the time animals need to spend in care.”

The existing shelter is no longer fit-for-purpose and regularly operates at capacity. The new facility design includes integrated indoor and outdoor areas, enhanced infection control, and dedicated spaces for adoption, treatment and care.

Sustainability features including solar panels and water harvesting systems will also be incorporated into the build.

For further details visit the Regional Animal Facility project page.