The critical repair works will see the replacement of the two-lane concrete boat ramp surface, which is in poor condition, as well as the two jetties.

The new ramp surface will feature grooved concrete slabs designed to provide a safer facility for locals and visitors wishing to launch and retrieve their vessels.

The ageing wooden jetties on the south and north sides of the ramp will be replaced with more functional modern jetties that will enable boat tie up points and better protection within the harbour.

Improvements will also be made to the rock revetments at the boat ramp.

The works are all part of Warrnambool City Council's Safer Launching and Breakwater Stabilisation project that included detailed design studies to upgrade the boat ramp and local port infrastructure, including the breakwater.

These critical boat ramp works are the first in a staged process of upgrading facilities at Warrnambool, including how best to deal with any wave surge issues at the ramp.

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The $3.5 million funding allocation is in addition to the Labor government's $47.2 million statewide investment through Better Boating Victoria to improve recreational boating, which has included making launching and parking free at ramps, establishing the Better Boating Fund, and progressing upgrades to facilities across Victoria.

Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne said the upgrade would mean a better facility for those coming to experience south-west waters, and would inject more life into Warrnambool's local tourism.

"The Warrnambool boat ramp has been rated one of the worst in Victoria so we've worked with council and local stakeholders to ensure we can really make a difference for anyone with a trailer boat," she said.

Member for Western Victoria Gayley Tierney said it was just the start of the process to improve facilities at Warrnambool.

"Once we've got the boat ramp upgraded, we'll look at how to reduce wave issues and make other improvements across the Port of Warrnambool," Ms Tierney said.

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