Princes Pier

Princes Pier is a restored historic timber pier located at Port Melbourne in the City of Port Phillip, Victoria, on the northern shore of Port Phillip Bay. Originally constructed between 1912 and 1915 as the New Railway Pier and later renamed for the Prince of Wales, it was Australia's largest timber-piled wharf. Notable for its role in World War I troop departures and post-war migrant arrivals, the heritage-listed pier now extends 196 metres into the bay as a public promenade.

Visitors can walk the restored 196-metre timber pier extending into Port Phillip Bay with original timber piles and decking, interpretive signage about maritime and migration history, and open views across the bay to the Melbourne city skyline, Station Pier and Beacon Cove. The setting is an exposed, flat waterfront promenade suitable for walking, photography, fishing and sunset viewing, with seating areas and no buildings on the pier itself.

Constructed 1912-1915 as the New Railway Pier to handle increased shipping, it was the largest timber-piled structure in Australia. Renamed Princes Pier after the visit of the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) in 1920. Served as major embarkation point for Australian troops in World War I and as arrival point for assisted migrants between 1921 and 1969. Heritage-listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and partially restored 2006-2011 after decades of disuse.

Recognised as a significant maritime and migration heritage place for Victoria, symbolising Australia's wartime departures and post-war migration story. The restored pier and foreshore are used for commemorative events and community gatherings, reflecting Port Melbourne's waterfront identity.