$84.4m Campbelltown Arts Centre expansion goes on exhibition

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Artist’s impression of an indoor space in the new arts centre. Image supplied.

The Minns Labor Government is inviting the community to help shape the future of one of Western Sydney’s premier cultural destinations, with plans for an $84.4 million expansion of the Campbelltown Arts Centre now on public exhibition.

Welcoming around 110,000 visitors each year, the arts centre has long been a creative heart of the arts community.

The proposed expansion will transform the precinct into a bigger, modern, cultural hub designed to support Macarthur’s and South Western Sydney’s growing population and thriving creative sector.

The proposed upgrades includes:

an expanded and redesigned arts facility reorientated towards Queen Street to better connect with the Campbelltown’s city centre, 350-seat theatre, expanded  gallery spaces, including exhibition and art collection storage areas, and creative, educational and rehearsal spaces.

Upgraded public spaces featuring a new café-restaurant, retail, and conference facilities, as well as artists’ residences, and expanded parking and supporting infrastructure will also be delivered as part of the expansion.

The project is backed by $79 million from the Western Sydney infrastructure grants program, with the remaining $5.4 million from Campbelltown City Council’s local infrastructure plan.

The project will be delivered by Campbelltown City Council, with construction expected to begin in early 2027, pending planning approval.

The project will support up to 70 construction jobs and create 12 new ongoing roles once complete, with the upgraded centre expected to open by mid- 2029.

Community feedback will help shape the final design, with residents, artist, and visitors encouraged to review the plans and have their say via the NSW Planning portal by Wednesday, June 17.

“A creative in Campbelltown should have the same access to cultural infrastructure as someone living close to the harbour,’’ says NSW arts minister John Graham.

“This investment will deliver the arts centre locals deserve.

“An expanded arts centre will mean a better platform for local performers and attract more touring shows to Campbelltown.

“This expansion is for the community, so it’s important they have their say on the design.”

Member for Campbelltown, Greg Warren, said the Campbelltown Arts Centre has been at the heart of the community for decades.

“This expansion will ensure it continues to inspire locals and attract visitors from across Western Sydney for generations to come.

“This is exactly the kind of investment our growing community deserves; modern cultural facilities, more opportunities for local artists and performers, and vibrant public spaces people can enjoy close to home.

“I know how important this project is to local residents, which is why I encourage everyone to have their say and help shape the future of this fantastic community asset.”

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