Applus+ awarded quality assurance contract for Tasmania’s largest sewer infrastructure upgrade

Supporting sustainable growth and water quality in Hobart

Hobart’s Selfs Point Sewage Treatment Plant has long played a central role in managing the city’s wastewater needs. However, as urban development expands and environmental expectations rise, the limitations of the existing facility have become increasingly apparent. Operating at near-capacity and using outdated treatment technology, the plant was contributing to elevated nutrient levels in the Derwent River — a situation that posed environmental risks and could restrict future development.

To address these challenges, TasWater initiated the Selfs Point Sewer Transformation Project. This strategic infrastructure upgrade will increase the plant’s treatment capacity from 10.4 megalitres per day to 24.9 megalitres per day. This capacity expansion, combined with advanced treatment processes, is expected to reduce nutrient discharge by 50% and significantly improve water quality outcomes for the region. The project is not only an investment in infrastructure, but in long-term sustainability and public health.

The Applus+ solution: independent quality assurance

Applus+ has been selected by the CPB UGL Joint Venture to deliver critical Quality Assurance services for the duration of the project’s construction phase. Our role is to provide an independent, systematic approach to verifying that all project activities — from civil works and mechanical installation to systems integration — meet or exceed regulatory and contractual requirements.

Our QA strategy includes detailed inspection and test planning (ITPs), documentation review, verification of materials and workmanship, and ongoing risk-based assessments. Applus+ teams are embedded in the project environment, working closely with construction managers, engineering teams, and client representatives to ensure quality is built into every step of the process.

With a track record of supporting complex infrastructure projects across Australia, Applus+ brings both deep technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge to the water sector.

Project impact and quality outcomes

Applus+ is proud to play a role in delivering one of Tasmania’s most transformative infrastructure projects to date. The quality assurance measures we implement are instrumental in avoiding costly delays, reducing rework, and maintaining strict compliance with environmental and safety standards. Already, our early engagement has helped identify non-conformances and implement corrective actions before they could escalate — preserving the project’s timeline and budget.

Once completed, the upgraded Selfs Point facility will support Hobart’s future growth by enabling reliable and environmentally sound wastewater treatment. The significant reduction in nutrient discharge will enhance the ecological health of the Derwent River, supporting marine biodiversity and cleaner waterways for the surrounding community.

This project exemplifies the importance of quality-led delivery in public infrastructure. It also underscores Applus+ commitment to supporting clients with smart, scalable, and sustainable inspection and quality solutions that improve outcomes across the built environment.