The first sod of soil has been turned at the site of Western Australia’s New Museum Project, signalling the beginning of construction – ahead of demolition works to the museum’s existing non-heritage buildings.
“Western Australians deserve a world-class museum that shares the stories of our State in innovative and exciting ways.
“The new museum will showcase the State’s extraordinary history, biodiversity, people and places. It will be a museum for all Western Australians and will feature Aboriginal culture as well as the stories of the many people of our multicultural State,” said Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman.
Multiplex, with its design team HASSELL+OMA, has been awarded last year to design and construct the new museum.
The new design incorporates contemporary architecture with the historic and heritage-listed buildings of the old museum which creates a visual landmark for WA. The New Museum Project will deliver a world-class museum which will have exhibition galleries, multi-purpose spaces for community use and public programs as well as studios for learning, and café and retail spaces.
“The McGowan Labor Government recognises the important role played by the cultural industries sector in supporting WA’s economy by creating jobs, attracting tourists and promoting a vibrant and cohesive community.
“The development of a world-class destination that provides excellent visitor experiences and learning opportunities for children and adults will be a great resource for all Western Australians, particularly families.
The project is expected to create up to 3,300 jobs, with approximately 1,800 jobs during construction.
Major construction works are expected to begin by mid-2017, with the New Museum to open its doors in 2020.
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Source: Government of Western Australia, Multiplex and Western Australian Museum