New Vic desalination plant breaks down

Victoria's controversial Wonthaggi desalination plant has broken down while getting ready to deliver its first water order.

A piece of equipment at the plant was damaged during the restart process and needs to be repaired, Water Minister Lisa Neville says on Friday.

Work on the government's order for 50 gigalitres of water has been delayed until February, but the government says this shouldn't affect its June 30 deadline.