$55 million rejuvenation to breathe new life into Perth cultural icon

The new design for the highly anticipated redevelopment of the Perth Cultural Centre (PCC) has been unveiled today, with the transformation set to make the icon the heart of the city. 

The $55 million project is jointly funded with $10 million in Australian Government funding, and $45 million from the WA Government.

The revitalised PCC will connect the State’s major cultural institutions with inviting landscaped areas, enhanced shaded spaces and greenery, and accessible pathways – creating a more welcoming public space for families, tourists, and lovers of arts and culture. 

A feature of the precinct will be improved amenities including a new viewing screen for events, capacity for additional food and beverage outlets and improved lighting for safely enjoying activities at the PCC during the evening

The PCC is managed by the Arts and Culture Trust and houses iconic institutions including:

  • Art Gallery of Western Australia 
  • WA Museum Boola Bardip
  • State Library of Western Australia 
  • State Theatre Centre of WA
  • The Blue Room Theatre 
  • Perth Institute of Contemporary Art.

Celebrating the PCC’s rich history, stories and sense of place, the design was developed following close engagement with local First Nations representatives and community members who have played an important role in the precinct’s past.

Building works are due to get underway in January 2025, with the rejuvenation project set to make the PCC the heart of the city in 2026. 

The latest PCC design is available at: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/culture-and-the-arts/perth-cultural-centre-rejuvenation 

Comments attributed Minister for Cities Jenny McAllister:

“This precinct is already known as a hub of culture, diversity and creativity in Perth. 

“The new designed pay tribute to the heritage of the Perth Cultural Centre, and transforms it into a more accessible and welcoming space for all. 

“Our partnership with the Cook Government is helping to transform Perth, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy, especially in the tourism and hospitality industries.

“This is an important project which will support the reinvigoration of the city and helps to position the CBD as, not just the economic centre, but the cultural centre for the future.”

Comments attributed to WA Minister for Culture and the Arts; Heritage David Templeman:

“Our Perth Cultural Centre (PCC) is set to be transformed into a more connected, vibrant, thriving and welcoming space for families, local communities and tourists.

“It is exciting to know that currently underused spaces will soon become attractive, tree-lined, shaded areas, that are accessible for all to rest and contemplate culture. 

“This latest phase of works builds on the previous significant investment and construction by the WA Government to transform WA Museum Boola Bardip at a cost of $400 million, and the $10 million Art Gallery rooftop refurbishment.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman:

“The Australian Government is proud to be supporting the future of the family-friendly heart of culture and the arts in Perth and Northbridge.

“The unveiling of this new design is an exciting step forward for the project.

“Reinvigorating our Cultural Centre to unlock economic opportunities and attract more people to the CBD to live, work and play.”