Head Contractor search begins for Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment

24/06/2025

Bendigo Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest regional galleries in Australia, drawing more than 100,000 visitors to the gold rush town each year. A major redevelopment will soon get underway to make it even better.

The gallery is now seeking a Head Contractor to lead the major $45 million development, which will drive more jobs and visitors to Bendigo and increase local spending.

The Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment will increase capacity so that the gallery can continue to host major international and local exhibitions, while growing its popular programs for the local community.

The historic makeover will include a new second-floor blockbuster exhibition space, a state-of-the-art learning centre, a theatrette, and a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.

The redevelopment will support around 260 jobs while it’s built over 2 years. When finished, the expanded gallery is expected to create around 170 new local jobs and generate up to $35 million more in local spending each year, according to modelling.

The project is being funded by a $21 million investment by the Victorian Government, $9 million from the City of Greater Bendigo, $4 million from the Gallery Board and $9.35 million from philanthropic donations.

The Victorian Government is continuing to invest in Victoria’s regions, which account for around one quarter of the state’s economic output, population, small businesses, and employment.

The state’s creative industries are also a significant and growing part of Victoria’s economy – having grown by $8.5 billion, or more than a quarter, over five years.

Construction on the Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment is expected to start at the beginning of 2026 and take approximately 2 years to complete.

Expressions of Interest will be accepted until 30 June. More information available via the City of Greater Bendigo website.