The Allan Labor Government is helping to create new jobs and provide an economic boost for the Bendigo region, with a search now underway for a Head Contractor to lead the landmark Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment.
The $45 million project is being funded by the Victorian Government, City of Greater Bendigo, the Gallery's Board and philanthropic donations.
Acting Minister for Regional Development Danny Pearson today announced an Expression of Interest is open for a Head Contractor to take the redevelopment to the next stage, ensuring the continued success of the world-class cultural facility.
Having outgrown its current facilities, the redevelopment will increase capacity so that the gallery can continue to host the best of international and local exhibitions.
It will include a new second-floor blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, a theatrette, and a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
The redevelopment will generate approximately 260 jobs during the two-year construction period. Modelling also shows that once completed, the expanded gallery will create 170 new local jobs and inject up to $35 million in annual spending into the local economy.
The project is being funded by a $21 million investment by the Victorian Government, $9 million from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4 million from the Gallery Board and $9.35 million from philanthropic donations.
The Labor Government is investing in Victoria's regions, which account for approximately one quarter of our state's economic output, population, small businesses, and employment. The state's creative industries are also a significant and growing part of Victoria's economy - having grown by $8.5 billion, or 26.6 per cent, over five years.
Construction on the Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment is expected to commence at the start of 2026 and take approximately two years to complete.
Expressions of Interest will be accepted until 30 June, with more information via the City of Greater Bendigo website: www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/building-and-business/doing-business-us
As stated by Acting Minister for Regional Development Danny Pearson
"It's fantastic to see that this significant project for regional arts and the regional economy is moving forward."
As stated by Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
"This investment will not just be transformative for the gallery and the experiences of thousands of visitors, it will open up opportunities for the local construction sector and create jobs, with flow-through benefits to local businesses and the community."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"This major redevelopment will lift the Bendigo Art Gallery's status as a world-class cultural facility and tourism drawcard to a new level."
As stated by City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Andrea Metcalf
"The Gallery redevelopment is a major, city-defining project for Bendigo. It is an investment in arts and culture as well as the economic future of our region."
As stated by Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot
"Our focus is to deliver a world-class gallery experience and contemporary building that cements the Gallery's reputation as an empowering, inclusive and engaging cultural facility for future generations."
