Australian Government funding makes Chinchilla Cultural Centre redevelopment project a reality for Western Downs

January 20, 2022

Under the third phase of the Australian Government’s $2.5 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, Western Downs Regional Council will receive $6,932,320 to redevelop the Chinchilla Cultural Centre Precinct.

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said that almost $7 million of the $8 million project cost would be met by the Australian Government under Phase 3 of the LRCI program.

“The approved project is the top priority of the Western Downs Regional Council,” Mr Littleproud said.

“It’s estimated that up to 40 local jobs will be supported with the redevelopment project, which is scheduled to start in July 2022 and be completed by June 2023.”

The Council owned and operated facility that includes a customer service centre, library, cinema and art gallery, will have improved community accessibility, visual amenity and safety once the facility is modernised and compliant with modern building codes and Australian Standards.

“The federal government has moved quickly to approve Council’s submission to fund the Chinchilla Cultural Centre Precinct Redevelopment, paving the way for shovels to hit the dirt to make it a reality,” he said.

“This will provide a vital boost for our local communities, backing local jobs and economic growth while delivering lasting upgrades that will benefit residents for years to come.”

“We want to deliver the best outcomes for locals under this program, which is why we have listened and acted on council feedback, providing a longer delivery window for local governments to pursue larger, more complex projects that may be a higher priority and have a bigger impact on the community,” Mr Littleproud said.

“We also get councils to use local businesses and workforces to deliver these projects as much as possible, ensuring this stimulus flows directly into the hands of hard-working Aussies, their families, their businesses and their communities.”

Western Downs Mayor Paul McVeigh said the revitalisation of the Chinchilla Cultural Precinct would deliver a modern, vibrant, and inviting space for residents and visitors.

“This project will breathe new life into this popular local precinct, which is home to our Customer Contact Centre, Cultural Centre, Library, Cinema, and Lapunyah Art Gallery,” Cr McVeigh said.

“The revitalisation is unique to the local area and will create new opportunities for the community to come together to enjoy activities and community events, while also encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region.

“This project was fast-tracked as part of Council’s COVID-19 Recovery Package to secure and create jobs and enhance the liveability of the region, and we are delighted the Australian Government has partnered with us to deliver this exciting project for the region.”

For more information on the $2.5 billion LRCI program, including the allocations for the $1 billion third phase, visit https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local-initiatives/local-roads-and-community-infrastructure/index.aspx.