June 4th, 2025Bendigo art gallery redevelopment gets ready to roll

The Bendigo Art Gallery is taking its status as a world-class cultural facility and tourism drawcard to a new level with a major redevelopment set to begin early next year with state government backing.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks representing the Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes in recent days joined Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards at the Gallery to announce that the highly anticipated redevelopment will get under way early next year.

The project is being funded by a $21 million investment from the state government, $9 million from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4 million from the Gallery Board, and $9.35 million in philanthropic support. The redevelopment will transform the building – and its impact on the community – for generations to come.

The project will deliver a new second-floor blockbuster exhibition space, expand the Gallery’s storage capacity, and add an innovative learning centre, theatrette, and a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural material.

Having outgrown its current facilities, the redevelopment will ensure the Gallery continues to attract and deliver the best of local and international exhibitions, while also enhancing its programs for the local community.

Bendigo Art Gallery is a key tourism driver for the region, generating more than $113 million in economic impact for Greater Bendigo since 2012 through its blockbuster exhibition program. Frida Kahlo: In Her Own Image has sold over 50,000 tickets since opening in March, with nearly 90 per cent of visitors coming from outside Bendigo.

Construction is expected to commence in early 2026 and is set to reopen in early 2028. A program of offsite exhibitions will be staged across Bendigo during construction to continue delivering arts and culture opportunities for visitors, businesses, community and students.

For more information, visit rdv.vic.gov.au.