A $10.6 million multi-purpose community pavilion is set to be built alongside the Goldfields Art Centre, marking the first investment from BHP's WA Nickel Community Fund.
The pavilion will be co-funded by the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder ($6.6 million), BHP ($3 million) and Lotterywest ($1 million), with construction beginning in August/September 2025 and completion set for May 2026.
BHP Vice President Western Australia Nickel, Annabelle Blom said: "We're thrilled that the community pavilion is the very first project to receive funding from our WA Nickel Community Fund."
"It won't be just a building – it will be a place for people. A place where local culture will be celebrated, where young people can safely access support, and where the community can come together – day or night – to connect, learn, and participate."
"Thank you to the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and our local partners for your vision and collaboration. We are very grateful that community leaders, people and businesses have come together like this for the future of the Goldfields."
The facility will host cultural events, youth programs and outreach services, creating a vibrant, inclusive venue that supports wellbeing, economic development, and First Nations celebration.
City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mayor Glenn Wilson said: "The multi-use community pavilion is something the community will really get use out of. It's a central space that's been designed to work for all kinds of local events – day or night, big or small – from markets and music to festivals, exhibitions, school events and more."
A key feature of the pavilion will be a culturally safe space for First Nations expression, building on successful partnerships formed through the Kal City Centre Public Art Project.
Mayor Wilson added: "This facility will shape how our community gathers, celebrates and supports one another for decades to come."
BHP's $20 million WA Nickel Community Fund was established in late 2024 to support the communities most impacted by the temporary suspension of the Western Australia Nickel operations.