- Published:
- Friday 21 November 2025 at 3:00 pm
The Allan Labor Government is championing the arts in Bendigo, with the redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery starting this summer following the appointment of a Head Contractor on the $45 million project.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes today announced that Fairbrother Construction has been appointed to lead the redevelopment, a project that will transform the gallery while providing a boost to local employment and construction businesses.
Operating in East Bendigo since 2008, Fairbrother Construction has delivered previous building works at the gallery as well as on major projects in town including the 13,000 square-metre ‘GovHub’ building Galkangu.
Approximately 260 jobs are expected to be created during the two-year construction phase of the project that will create a second-floor blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, theatrette, and Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
Once the project has been completed, a further 170 jobs are expected and up to $35 million in annual spending added to the local economy.
With a Head Contractor secured, the gallery’s incredible collection of artwork will now be moved into storage ahead of its doors closing to the public on 30 November.
The City of Greater Bendigo will deliver a special program of exhibitions and events at other locations while the gallery is closed, keeping residents and visitors connected to Bendigo’s celebrated arts and culture scene.
The redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery is being funded through a $21 million investment by the Victorian Government through, $9 million from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4 million from the Gallery Board and $9.35 million from philanthropic donations.
Support from the Victorian Government is part of our record $47 billion investment in just over a decade to drive economic growth and make Victoria’s regions even better places to live, work, stay, experience, invest and study.
Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes
“This is a major milestone for a major project that will raise the bar for arts and culture infrastructure in Victoria’s regions.”
Quote Attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“This redevelopment is a boon for our city and will create new jobs and business opportunities for the area’s skilled construction sector.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“This is a project of national significance, creating a new place for tourists to visit, jobs locally and a place we can be proud of for generations.”
Quotes attributable to City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Thomas Prince
“The new Bendigo Art Gallery will be a destination of national and international significance – a vibrant, engaging space defined by timeless architecture and designed to inspire both our community and visitors.”
Quotes attributable to Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot
“We’re excited to work with Fairbrother Construction, whose team clearly demonstrated an understanding of the project’s bespoke design and high-quality finish requirements.”