A major redevelopment of the iconic Maitland Gaol will be supported by a $10 million funding injection from the Australian and New South Wales governments.
Long-planned upgrades to one of the Hunter region's most popular tourist destinations can now begin, with the Commonwealth and New South Wales each committing $5 million to the project.
This funding will enable Maitland Gaol to expand and improve its facilities and services, ensuring it continues to attract visitors into the future while supporting jobs and driving economic growth.
Our investment will also position Maitland Gaol to attract private sector funding to underpin future development, including building on-site accommodation, and create more economic opportunities.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to deliver projects that regional communities need to grow and prosper.
"Regional towns deserve the same opportunities, services and facilities as capital cities, which is why we are backing the redevelopment of the popular Maitland Gaol," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"This iconic destination drives Maitland's economy, supporting local jobs, attracting visitors and events to the area, and helping generate the wealth that underpins this great regional centre.
"Redeveloping Maitland Gaol now will ensure it remains an attractive destination for decades to come, boosting tourism activity and driving our recovery on the other side of the pandemic.
"We're proud to partner with the New South Wales Government in this initiative which is good for Maitland, good for New South Wales, good for jobs and good for the economy."
Authorised by the Hon Barnaby Joyce MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Tamworth.
New South Wales Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the $5.48 million investment from the NSW Government's Regional Tourism Activation Fund would deliver a first-of-its-kind tourist drawcard in the Hunter.
"The first stage of the redevelopment will include an upgraded entry, a new destination café with interior access to the gaol, and boutique accommodation in the historic on-site residences, transforming and activating the gaol both day and night," Mr Toole said.
"On top of injecting tourism dollars into the local economy once completed, the redevelopment will support more than 30 jobs during construction and provide opportunities for local businesses, delivering an important economic boost to the region.
"Maitland Gaol is already an iconic tourist attraction for the Hunter, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in history, and this investment will help take it to the next level."
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said he had been pleased to push for the Federal Government commitment after touring the gaol last year.
"It was great to see the plans first-hand when I met with Maitland City Council to discuss this significant project, which will undoubtedly deliver important economic and social benefits for our region," Dr Gillespie said.
"This is an exciting project for the Hunter and broader region that we're delighted to back in with seed funding, which in turn will encourage private sector investment."
Maitland City Council Mayor Philip Penfold welcomed the investment in Maitland Gaol's redevelopment.
"The City of Maitland is thrilled by the support of the Australian and New South Wales governments," Mayor Penfold said.
"This funding paves the way for the redevelopment of Maitland Gaol into one of the most unique and iconic tourism destinations in the country.
"Council can now commence implementation of the Maitland Gaol Development Plan and Site Master Plan, ensuring the facility is available to enjoy for generations to come.
"Maitland Gaol holds a very special place in the hearts of the community and with this support from both levels of government, it will remain that way long into the future."
Maitland Gaol was the longest continuously operating correctional institution in Australia, opening in 1848 and closing its gates 150 years later, on 29 January 1998. Opening as a tourism attraction in 2000, the heritage listed site is one of Maitland's premier locations for locals, visitors and events.
