Novotel Geelong launches US$75M expansion project, set to become the city’s largest hotel

AUSTRALIA – An important milestone for Geelong’s tourism and hospitality sectors has been marked with the commencement of a US$75 million expansion project at Novotel Geelong.

This development promises to be the city’s largest hotel initiative ever, enhancing Geelong’s appeal as a major destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

The ambitious project features the construction of an 11-story hotel tower located along Geelong’s picturesque waterfront.

This new tower will add 134 additional guest rooms, including 15 apartment-style suites designed for longer stays and guests seeking extra space and privacy.

Once complete, the hotel will have a total of 243 rooms, positioning Novotel Geelong as the city’s largest and most accommodating hotel.

Beyond merely increasing capacity, the tower will include a state-of-the-art wellness centre featuring a fully equipped fitness area and spa facilities.

Guests will also enjoy a 125-seat brasserie-style restaurant offering a mix of indoor and outdoor dining, with sweeping 360-degree panoramic views rising 36 metres above the bay, creating an elevated culinary experience.

Additionally, the expansion will provide 1,200 square meters of new event space, complementing the existing facility.

This space will enhance Geelong’s capability to host conferences, exhibitions, weddings, and other large-scale events, further cementing the city’s status as a vibrant hub for both tourism and business.

The project is being delivered by Melbourne-based Ireland Brown Constructions and designed by PACT Architects.

The new building is set to blend seamlessly with the city’s skyline while offering a contemporary and future-focused approach to hospitality.

Novotel Geelong, managed by ERDI Group since its 2001 opening, has won several industry awards including Regional Accommodation of the Year in 2024 and Regional Hotel Restaurant of the Year in 2025. This expansion will bolster its leadership position in the regional market.

ERDI Group CEO Ricky Jeffs emphasized that the expansion future-proofs the property, enabling it to meet the evolving demands of travelers for years to come.

Accor Pacific COO Adrian Williams noted that the new tower will raise Geelong’s profile on Australia’s tourism map, attracting more visitors and events.

Scheduled for completion in 2027, this expansion represents a significant investment in Geelong’s hospitality infrastructure and long-term economic growth.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.