Perth Concert Hall to benefit from $98 million refurbishment

March 13, 2023

The Western Australian Government has announced the commitment of an additional $97.6 million to Perth Concert Hall revamp, boosting the project's total value to $150 million.

Revitalising the 50-year-old heritage-listed venue, ensuring the best possible experience for patrons, while providing performing artists with new rehearsal spaces and better backstage facilities, the project will give the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO) a permanent home.

Aiming at securing the future of the landmark venue, the project will include overdue essential structural maintenance of the building, preservation of the its acoustic features,

refurbishment of working areas used daily by resident company WASO and improved venue access for users, especially for people who live with disability.

It will also see the venue’s forecourts transformed to make the outside useable for gatherings and festivals.

This major financial boost almost triples the total value of the project to $150 million, bringing the Western Australian Government's contribution to $134 million - building on the $12 million from the Australian Government and $4 million by the City of Perth.

The Perth Concert Hall redevelopment is one of the key Western Australian projects that may be supported by contributions to the Resources Community Investment Initiative (RCII). The RCII's founding partners include Rio Tinto, BHP, Hancock Prospecting, Roy Hill, Atlas Iron, Woodside Energy, Chevron Australia and Mineral Resources, which together have committed $750 million.

Commenting on the funding commitment, Western Australian Premier, Mark McGowan stated “the Perth Concert Hall has been a WA icon since it opened 50 years ago.

"Our investment will see the venue deliver an even better experience for patrons and performers. Importantly, it will provide a permanent home to the WA Symphony Orchestra – our State's largest employer of performing artists.

"This significant financial contribution will go a long way towards tackling structural maintenance issues that have come to light during the design phase.

"We can now guarantee a lasting and transformational impact on our premier musical venue."

Significant structural issues at the venue, include an underground carpark that requires props to hold the sagging ceiling in place while props are also required to maintain the integrity of some staircases.

The Perth Concert Hall plays host to more than 160 events each year.

The refurbishment is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.

Designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, Perth Concert Hall was the first concert hall to be built in Australia after the Second World War. Its construction was carried out by Sabemo (WA) with its doors opening to the public on 26th January 1973.

Images: Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan has announced an additional $98 million cash injection for the redevelopment of the dilapidated Perth Concert Hall.

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