- The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment, with construction breaking ground on site of dedicated Chinese Culture and Heritage Centre in Cairns.
- Crisafulli Government's shared funding delivers on election promise and shows commitment to honouring the region's rich migrant history.
- Construction on $4 million project set to finish in late 2026, followed by centre's grand opening for Chinese New Year in 2027.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
Construction is underway on the purpose-built Chinese Culture and Heritage Centre in Cairns, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the Crisafulli Government's key election commitment.
The project is estimated to cost $4 million and is jointly funded by the Crisafulli Government and community organisation Cairns & District Chinese Association Inc.
The Crisafulli Government's $2.7 million contribution delivers on its commitment to build a dedicated space that honours the region's rich migrant history and celebrates the communities that have shaped Cairns.
The centre will be built opposite the Chinese Friendship Gardens in Edge Hill and will house the Cairns Lit Sung Goong Temple artefacts collection. It will also provide a venue for education, research, performing arts and inclusive community events.
The Crisafulli Government is backing projects like the Chinese Culture and Heritage Centre which build stronger and safer communities as oppose to Labor who did nothing but divide our multicultural communities during their decade of decline.
The project's construction is being undertaken by local builder MyBuildGroup, which was awarded the contract late last year after a competitive tender process. The Centre's designs were produced by local company TPG Architects.
Construction is expected to be completed in late 2026, with the centre's grand opening scheduled for Chinese New Year in 2027.
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the centre would help foster social cohesion in the region as a space for all to share and enjoy.
"Chinese Australian history in Far North Queensland is rich and varied, and it is important that all Queenslanders know that part of our story," Minister Simpson said.
"Chinese migrants have made great contributions to the social, agricultural, economic and cultural development of our state.
"This centre reflects the Crisafulli LNP Government's commitment to building a State where people of diverse cultures can celebrate their heritage and their shared commitment to our national values of freedom, democracy and peace."
Cairns & District Chinese Association Inc (CADCAI) incoming president Nathan Lee Long said the centre would be an important focal point for Chinese-Australian culture in the region and will ensure their history is preserved for future generations.
"It's incredibly exciting to see the Chinese Culture and Heritage Centre moving from vision to reality. This is more than a building – it is a symbol of resilience, contribution and pride for Chinese Australians," Mr Lee Long said.
"The story of Chinese Australians is deeply rooted in the establishment of modern Australia. The centre will be a home for this story and the place to understand the vast reach of Chinese Australians throughout Far North Queensland and Cape York."
Member for Mulgrave Terry James congratulated CADCAI on their hard work over many years to secure a permanent cultural and heritage facility for the community.
"As someone who has spent my whole life in the Cairns region, I realise how important the Chinese influence and culture has been on our community.
"I want to congratulate Nathan and his association for getting to this very important milestone. I can't wait to see the completed project," Mr James said.
Member for Barron River Bree James said the centre would be an important acknowledgement of the significant contribution the local Chinese community has made to the region.
"Having this centre built here in Edge Hill, opposite the Chinese Friendship Gardens, creates a meaningful cultural precinct that locals and visitors alike will be able to enjoy for generations," Ms James said.
"This project shows our government's commitment to delivering for regional Queensland, supporting vibrant multicultural communities and building facilities that strengthen local identity, tourism and community pride," Ms James said.
