Gallery redevelopment on the up in Bendigo
08/10/2026The $45 million redevelopment of the Bendigo Art Gallery is on track, with a significant construction milestone achieved.
Major demolition works have been completed and the slab poured for the new world-class facility that will elevate Bendigo’s place as a regional tourism and cultural destination.
With more than 240 workers now engaged on the build, the Bendigo community will start to see the new gallery take shape.
This includes a second floor for international exhibitions, along with:
- a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials
- an innovative learning centre
- a theatrette
- accessible community spaces.
A 20-metre-wide artwork by Aunty Marilyne Nicholls (see below) will be embedded in the façade of the new gallery, paying tribute to First Nations culture.
The redevelopment will establish the gallery as a landmark cultural facility for future generations, while injecting new economic activity into Bendigo.
This includes an estimated $35 million in annual spending for the local economy, and up to 170 ongoing jobs.
The Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment is being funded by a $21 million investment from the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund, $9 million from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4 million from the Gallery Board and $9.35 million from philanthropic donations.