Works have commenced to transform the Perth Cultural Centre precinct into a modern and vibrant hub for the arts, culture and community connection.
The $55 million redevelopment, which is jointly funded by the Cook and Albanese Labor governments, will connect Western Australia's major cultural institutions with inviting landscaped areas, more shade, and accessible pathways with lush greenery - creating a welcoming public space for families, tourists and lovers of arts and culture.
EMCO Building is undertaking the works, with cultural institutions to remain open and accessible throughout construction.
As part of the project, the underutilised rear of the Art Gallery of Western Australia will be revitalised into a nature-filled escape featuring new sculpture art, creating a central space for festivals and community events.
Enhanced services will pave the way for expanded hospitality offerings, while a new large screen at the heart of the precinct will enable live broadcasting of events.
The Perth Cultural Centre is managed by the Arts and Culture Trust and houses a number of iconic WA institutions, including:
- the Art Gallery of Western Australia;
- the WA Museum Boola Bardip;
- the State Library of Western Australia;
- the State Theatre Centre of WA;
- The Blue Room Theatre; and
- the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts.
The Cook Labor Government has invested $45 million towards the redevelopment, with the Albanese Labor Government contributing $10 million. The project was developed following engagement and consultation with key stakeholders who have played an important role in the precinct's past, including First Nations representatives.
The latest phase of works builds on the WA Labor Government's delivery of the new WA Museum Boola Bardip and Art Gallery rooftop refurbishment within the Perth Cultural Centre precinct.
More information on the Perth Cultural Centre redevelopment is available at: www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/culture-and-the-arts/perth-cultural-centre-rejuvenation
As stated by WA Premier Roger Cook:
"The Perth Cultural Centre redevelopment is more than a facelift - it will make better use of the space joining our city's iconic cultural institutions, creating a more welcoming and shaded area with expanded hospitality offerings and a large screen for people to watch live events.
"This project is an important part of the bigger picture emerging for arts and culture in our State, with works underway on the new Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and Perth Film Studios, Perth Concert Hall upgrades about to commence, and early planning being done for an expansion of the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
"My Government is driving the revitalisation of our city and investing hundreds of millions of dollars to create jobs, boost economic activity and bring vibrancy and character to the Perth CBD."
As stated by Federal Minister for Cities Jenny McAllister:
"This redevelopment celebrates the Perth Cultural Centre's rich history while enhancing it for the future. The project increases local liveability, while also adding to culture and tourism opportunities on offer in Perth.
"The Albanese Government is committed to working across all levels of government to support city-shaping infrastructure that delivers real benefits for Perth communities."
Comments attributed to WA Minister for Culture and the Arts David Templeman:
"Congratulations to all involved in bringing this project to the construction stage.
"These significant improvements will further activate the Perth Cultural Centre, creating a more welcoming precinct for families, tourists and lovers of arts and culture.
"Improved safety has been a key consideration with enhancements including lighting, safety bollards and improved accessible pathways."
As stated by Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman:
"The Albanese and Cook governments are working together to build Perth's future. Our community will thrive with more accessible and welcoming spaces in our city's cultural heart.
"This project will support hundreds of jobs and back small businesses in Perth.
"I will continue to advocate to build Western Australia's future and make Perth's CBD an even more beautiful heart of our State."
As stated by Perth MLA John Carey:
"It is brilliant to see works have commenced on this major $55 million project funded by the Cook and Albanese Labor governments, to not only rejuvenate the Perth Cultural Precinct, but to continue our Government's efforts to revitalise the Perth CBD.
"We are getting on with delivering a range of transformative projects, just like the redevelopment of the Perth Cultural Centre, that will encourage more people to live in Perth and drive more vibrancy, foot traffic and activity to our city."
