Power on for Mildura Powerhouse transformation

Mildura’s iconic riverfront is being revitalised with the Powerhouse precinct redevelopment now complete and ready for locals and visitors to enjoy, made possible by the Australian and Victorian governments.

Victorian Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing today opened and toured the new indoor and outdoor retail, events and function hub.

With $1.75 million from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program and $1 million from the Murray–Darling Basin Economic Development Program, along with $5.9 million from the Victorian Government – the Mildura Riverfront Powerhouse is being delivered by Mildura Rural City Council.

The landmark project created 120 local jobs during construction and will boost tourism and employment opportunities across the region.

The 1900s-era Powerhouse building has been restored and upgraded to include spaces for creative exhibitions, function, retail, hospitality and events.

The upgraded Village Square precinct will be home to a new digital information platform that will help visitors explore what’s on in Mildura and features a new café and outdoor area for people to gather year-round.

The Powerhouse building is next to the Mildura Art Gallery and will pave the way for more artistic exhibitions that showcase the work of local artists. A new artwork supported by the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program will soon be launched and projected on the building’s exterior to celebrate First Nations women’s connection to Country.

The original Powerhouse building was known as the “machine room” within the historic, coal-fired Mildura Power Plant before it closed in the 1950s. The restored building and precinct are today powered by an array of solar panels and also house the Council’s first battery storage system that supports its wide range of facilities and businesses.

Mildura is a vital part of Victoria’s rich agriculture industry thanks to its arid climate, with local industries ex-porting a wide range of products to local and international markets. It is also a major destination for tourism and events throughout the year.

The Mildura Riverfront Powerhouse Precinct redevelopment has received funding from Regional Development Victoria, Sustainability Victoria and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.

The project is part of the Victorian Government’s investment of more than $41 billion across rural and regional communities in the state since 2015.

Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing:

“Mildura is an increasingly popular visitor destination with a vibrant and diverse local history, and the new Powerhouse precinct is a beautiful and accessible riverfront success story. We’re so proud to have supported this project which will provide an events, retail and community base for generations to come.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt:

“I’m thrilled to see this significant development showcases the use of recycled materials in the carpark and pathways. This helps drive and grow the market for our recycled materials, and supports Victoria’s transition to a circular, climate resilient clean economy.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek:

“Tourism is worth more than $11 billion in the Murray-Darling Basin and projects like the Mildura Powerhouse help our Basin communities capitalise on what our wonderful regions have to offer.

“It was great to visit this innovative precinct last week, which has both the health of our environment and the need for economic prosperity in this region front of mind. Its high-quality infrastructure and multi-purposes spaces will really transform how locals and tourists experience this iconic waterfront.”

Quote attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain:

“The revitalisation of the historic Powerhouse building will unlock the potential of the Mildura riverfront transformation - drawing more people in, creating local employment opportunities, and boosting the economy of this significant inland river city."