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Footscray Community Arts to be transformed with $8.7 million redevelopment

The transformation of Footscray Community Arts has commenced with the redevelopment being delivered via an $8.7 million contribution from the Victorian Government, funded through the Victorian Budget 2022/23 as part of the $17.5 million Creative Infrastructure Program.

Celebrating 50 years in 2024, the redevelopment of the Footscray Community Arts includes a new multi-use, outdoor performance space with year-round weather protection and improved disability and mobility access.

Landscaping works and new planting will also take place, as well as the integration of artwork by Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and Wiradjuri visual artist, Moorina Bonini.

Once complete, Footscray Community Arts will be able to host outdoor music events, cultural ceremonies, performances, talks and workshops – with a focus on community-led programming for the diverse communities who call Footscray home.

The redevelopment has been designed by MGS Architects and Simone Bliss Landscape Architects, with leadership from Footscray Community Arts' Indigenous Advisory Group who have worked closely with the teams to embed First Peoples culture into the design and landscape.

Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks noted “Footscray Community Arts has a 50-year history of putting on inclusive and inspirational creative and cultural experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life – right in the heart of Melbourne’s West.”

“This redevelopment will mean Footscray Community Arts can host outdoor shows all year round, with increased accessibility for artists and audiences – and with First Peoples’ culture embedded into the design.”

Artistic Director and CEO, Footscray Community Arts, Daniel Santangeli added “as Melbourne’s west grows so is Footscray Community Arts. This architecturally designed outdoor performance space will allow us continue our 50 year legacy of supporting communities to connect through creativity.”

The Creative Infrastructure Program also includes funding the Castlemaine Art Museum, Theatre Works, the National Theatre, the City of Dandenong and City of Wyndham.

The redevelopment of Footscray Community Arts is expected to be completed and open to the public in late 2025.

For more information about Footscray Community Arts visit footscrayarts.com/

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