The Union Street Mural is getting a new look. 

A team of 18 young participants, under lead artist Justin Whitcomb and City of Greater Geelong Graffiti project officer, is creating a new design for the prominent mural wall.

City of Greater Geelong Cr Tony Ansett, who chairs the Graffiti Reference Group, said it was time to give the Mural "a fresh, new look."

"When the first design was created in 2003, it was agreed that it would have a three to five-year life span then it would be time for change," Cr Ansett said.

"The new design has a strong environmental theme, which is very relevant and timely."

The initiative is a joint project between the City Aerosol Network and Victoria Police, and is part of the City of Greater Geelong's Graffiti Strategy.

"The three key elements of this ongoing strategy are rapid removal, prevention and policing," Youth portfolio holder Cr Jan Farrell who sits on the Graffiti Reference Group said.

"Providing young people with legitimate aerosol art opportunities is one of a range of strategies to help prevent graffiti," she said.

"The Union Street Mural project allows young people to develop their artistic abilities, express themselves through art and have their work reach a large audience." 

The Mural is expected to be completed by Thursday.