Victorians have been encouraged to share their vision for the future of Federation Square, with public consultation as part of a major review of the site starting from today.
The Andrews Labor Government launched the review in April, with the aim of identifying recommendations to improve the experience for visitors to Federation Square and investigate best financial and governance frameworks.
There will be a focus on how Federation Square functions as a public space and meeting place so that it continues to stand out as an iconic Melbourne attraction that is enjoyed by not only Victorians but people from across Australia and around the world.
The consultation period will seek ideas from the community, urban design experts and stakeholders with a view to opening up more public space, encouraging gatherings and providing a better connection to the Yarra River.
Submissions can be made online until the end of September while an information hub at Federation Square is due to open next week.
A decision by Heritage Victoria in April in relation to the Apple flagship store proposed for Federation Square provided the opportunity to commission a comprehensive assessment of the precinct, which was opened in 2002.
The review will propose a sustainable business model and governance arrangements to address the square’s operational and building needs and will also address implications flowing from the pending decision on the site’s inclusion on the Victorian Heritage Register.
How Federation Square can best operate in the future alongside Metro Tunnel’s Town Hall station is another element to be considered.
Victorian Government Architect Jill Garner and former managing partner of Ernst and Young Tim Eddy are chairing the review, which is due to make recommendations to the Government by the end of the year.
To take part in the Federation Square review, visit .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
“Federation Square has been a meeting place in the heart of Melbourne for close on two decades and ideas from the public will be essential in ensuring this review makes it an even better place to visit.”
“The community will benefit most from improvements to be made at Federation Square, so we encourage people to take up the opportunity to have their say.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“We value the community’s thoughts and opinions on Federation Square as a cultural and creative space, on what can be improved and, importantly, what its future vision and purpose should be.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020