Planning for a world-class Aboriginal Cultural Centre overlooking the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) is a step closer with the release of a design tender.
The centre is planned to serve as a central cultural hub showcasing the rich diversity of Aboriginal cultures, highlighting their many forms of expression, including story, song, art, and dance.
Premier, Roger Cook said it will be a place where all Western Australians, as well as national and international visitors, can foster a deeper understanding of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures through immersive experiences.
“This is an important milestone in realising a landmark cultural development for WA on the banks of the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River),” said Premier Cook.
“This is the latest example of our commitment to develop major infrastructure projects that both help to diversify the economy and increase the cultural vibrancy of our State.
“I look forward to the next stage of this project and accomplishing the vision of transforming the area into one of Western Australia’s premier events hubs and destination attractions.”
The centre will include indoor and outdoor spaces for art, performance, education, research, community and commercial activities.
Funding of $104 million has been allocated to the project to date, $52 million from the State Government and $52 million from the Commonwealth Government.
Early project planning has been informed by ongoing sector and community engagement, which will continue as design progresses, said Creative Industries Minister, Simone McGurk.
“The progress of the Aboriginal Cultural Centre project, together with the redevelopment of the Perth Concert Hall, is an exciting opportunity to enhance Western Australia’s cultural experiences,” said Ms McGurk.
“This landmark project will serve as a cultural hub for Western Australia’s First Nations peoples and become a vital part of our shared heritage.”
Aboriginal Cultural Centre project steering committee chair, Divina D’Anna MLA said the centre will be “a place where the past, present and future of Aboriginal culture comes together and is shared proudly with national and international visitors.
“It will offer an immersion experience that invites deep connection, understanding and celebration of Aboriginal cultures, honouring the world’s oldest living culture,” she said.
