Due to the overwhelming success of past exhibitions, a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will provide $15.5 million towards the redevelopment and expansion of Bendigo Art Gallery.
Bendigo Art Gallery is renowned for hosting large-scale international blockbuster exhibitions that are a significant tourism drawcard. These exhibitions have many flow-on effects to the local accommodation and hospitality sectors across the Bendigo community more broadly.
Over the past 10 years the Gallery has averaged 150,000 visitors a year but this number has been in excess of 200,000 when major exhibitions such asElvis: Direct from Graceland have been staged.
A redevelopment of the entire site will deliver a multi-storey building that enhances the capacity for major exhibitions and visitor attractions, and creates new engagement and public spaces for the regional community.
The upgrade will also allow for a new world-class learning centre for regional students, families and the local community, as well as an expanded Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for the Dja Dja Wurrung collection.
Leader of the Liberal Party, Matt Guy, said projects like the Bendigo Art Gallery expansion were vital in securing regional Victoria's recovery.
"Delivering world-class facilities at Bendigo Art Gallery will ensure this destination will attract visitors and support locals for generations to come."
"Victoria is already the cultural capital of Australia but a Liberals and Nationals Government is committed to doing even more to cement our reputation."
Shadow Minister for the Arts and Creative Industries, David Davis, said this upgrade would cement Bendigo Art Gallery as an important cultural hub.
"Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia's leading and oldest regional art galleries and is now overdue for a redevelopment."
"Darin Schade has done a terrific job of listening to the Bendigo community and advocating on their behalf to help see this commitment become a reality."
Liberal Candidate for Bendigo East, Darin Schade, said the expansion of Bendigo Art Gallery will be a real boost to the local community.
"This expansion is the next step in developing a wonderful arts and cultural precinct here in Bendigo and I'm proud to be part of a Liberals and Nationals team who delivers it."
