The transformation of Warrawong's town centre is officially underway, with construction starting on the Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library. This vital new facility represents a $40 million investment in community infrastructure for the suburb.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown was joined today by the Hon. Alison Byrnes MP and the Hon. Paul Scully MP to mark the start of construction.
"This project is a major milestone for Warrawong and our southern suburbs, including Berkeley, Lake Heights, Cringila, Port Kembla, Primbee and Windang," said Cr Brown.
"It reflects Council's ongoing commitment to creating welcoming, safe and accessible spaces that support lifelong learning, diversity, and community wellbeing. I am absolutely thrilled that we have reached the point where the vision is becoming a reality."
The works being undertaken in the initial stage of the project include earthworks, building foundations, and multiple service relocations funded by Council in its 2025-2026 financial year budget.
Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes said she looked forward to delivering on the $10 million election commitment made by the Federal Government earlier this year.
"I have proudly fought hard to support this absolutely vital project for our southern suburbs. This has been long-overdue and I am so delighted to see investment across different levels of government to ensure this new community centre and library can become a reality," Ms Byrnes said.
"Thank you to council and everyone in our community who have tirelessly advocated to get this off the ground. I simply cannot wait to see those doors open so that local people have a space to access the services they need, and to learn, play and socialise," she said.
Located at the corner of King and Greene Streets, the highly anticipated new three-storey facility will become a vibrant community hub where people can learn, meet, connect and celebrate.
Designed with sustainability and inclusivity at its core, the centre will include flexible meeting spaces, an auditorium, public Wi-Fi, digital access points, public art installations, a quiet sensory room and a Changing Places facility. End-of-trip amenities will encourage active transport to the centre.
The modern library will include children's areas, educational resources, dedicated study spaces and a community lounge complementing a rich collection of free resources, technology and programs.
The new building provides a range of flexible spaces for community use, including provision to support local outreach partners including previous Warrawong Community Centre licensees Illawarra Legal Centre, Warrawong Residents Forum and the Vietnamese Association of Wollongong.
Outside, a large forecourt and community veranda with seating will overlook a landscaped town square featuring grassed areas, trees, gardens and spaces for play, recreation and relaxation.
Construction is expected to be completed by mid-2027.
More project details and artist impressions are available at Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library .
