- Published:
- Wednesday 18 May 2022
The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with delivering Australia’s largest regional arts centre, with workers celebrating a key milestone on the landmark Geelong Arts Centre project.
The $140 million Little Malop Street redevelopment is putting Geelong first with local partnerships, skills, innovation and jobs at the heart of the project, as builders today placed the last beam on the four-storey structure.
Work by contractor Lendlease will continue apace with the “topping out” complete and the landmark project on track to be completed by late 2023. The project will create more than 600 jobs during construction, with more than one in three workers who have contributed to date hailing from the Geelong region.
Designed by award-winning Victorian architects ARM in collaboration with a broader design team, more than 145,000 work hours will have been completed by the time the Centre’s two new theatres, outdoor atrium and dining facilities open to the public. New back-of-house and administration facilities will also be created.
The expanded, state-of-the-art centre is expected to create up to 300 ongoing jobs in the region, taking in the arts and tourism sectors.
The Little Malop Street redevelopment is the largest stage of Geelong Arts Centre’s transformation, following the refurbishment of the Playhouse Theatre in 2010 and the $38.5 million Ryrie Street redevelopment, completed in 2019.
Funded by the Labor Government, the project is being delivered through a partnership between the Geelong Arts Centre, Creative Victoria, Development Victoria and Lendlease.
For further information on the project, visit geelongartscentre.org.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson
“We started with a vision – to bring jobs and economic activity to Geelong and create a world-class arts centre. We’ve delivered the jobs, and today brings us a step closer to opening the doors to a stunning facility.”
“Geelong Arts Centre will be a jewel in the regional creative crown, attracting visitors from across Australia and supporting local businesses and jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“The Geelong Arts Centre redevelopment is a boon for our region’s economic vitality and cultural life. This will be a buzzing, welcoming place that all of Geelong can enjoy and be proud of.”
Quote Attributable to Geelong Arts Centre CEO and Creative Director Joel McGuinness
“I am incredibly grateful to all who have contributed to achieving today's milestone – together we are creating Australia's largest regional arts centre, a cultural and creative hub for all.”