Novotel Geelong is set to become the largest hotel in the Victorian city with a $75 million expansion officially underway.

Construction has commenced on a new 11-storey tower, immediately south of the existing hotel, that will deliver an additional 134 guestrooms, including 15 apartment-style suites, taking the hotel’s total accommodation offering to 243 rooms. The project, which marks the single largest hotel development in the city’s history, will include a state-of-the-art wellness centre and a 125-seat brasserie-style restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining and 360-degree panoramic views 36 metres above the bay.

On completion, there will be 1,200 square metres of combined event space across both the existing hotel and new tower. “Geelong is undergoing an incredible transformation, and we see an exciting future ahead for the city as both a visitor destination and a business hub,” said ERDI Group Chief Executive Officer, Ricky Jeffs.

“By creating Geelong’s largest and most impressive hotel, we’re not only elevating the Novotel Geelong experience but also making a long-term commitment to supporting the city’s growth and its thriving tourism economy. “This expansion is about future-proofing the hotel, ensuring we can meet the needs of business and leisure travellers for decades to come.”

Since ERDI opened the hotel in 2001, Novotel Geelong has received multiple industry accolades, and underwent a major refurbishment in 2018. “Novotel Geelong has always been a place people love to stay, and this new tower will take the hotel to the next level,” said Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer, Adrian Williams.

“It will put Geelong firmly on the map as one of Australia’s best destinations for conferences, events and tourism. We’re absolutely thrilled to be part of this landmark project with our long-term partner ERDI, whose vision and investment continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Geelong’s tourism and hospitality scene. “This project is a true reflection of the incredible energy and growth the city is experiencing.”

The project, which intends to deliver a “contemporary, future-focused addition to the Geelong skyline”, is being delivered by Melbourne-based Ireland Brown Constructions and designed by PACT Architects. “We are proud to be partnering with ERDI Group and Accor on such a transformative project for Geelong,” said Ireland Brown Constructions Construction and Delivery Director, Tom McKay. “Beyond creating an iconic new hotel for the waterfront, this development will generate substantial employment during construction and long-term jobs for the community once open in 2027.”