The Hon Catherine King MP
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Hon Stephen Jones MP
Assistant Treasurer
Minister for Financial Services
Member for Whitlam
Cr Jesse Fitzpatrick
Mayor of Wingecarribee Shire Council
MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday 14th January 2025
Albanese Labor Government secures $8.6 Million to restore the Mittagong Playhouse
The Mittagong Playhouse is set to undergo an $8.65 million restoration and refurbishment project, with $4.3 million in funding support from the Albanese Labor Government's Growing Regions Program.
The project will transform the venue into a state-of-the-art performing arts facility by integrating three interconnected buildings: the Memorial Hall, School of Arts, and the old Mittagong Council Building.
Restoration work will include replacing the auditorium seating, stage structure, and roof, as well as installing new audio-visual systems, adding a passenger lift for improved accessibility, and restoring the stone cladding and façade.
The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening regional economies through these strategic infrastructure developments. Once complete, the Playhouse will serve as a cultural hub in the Southern Highlands region.
For more information about the Growing Regions Program, visit: http://infrastructure.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones:
“This investment will provide great facilities where the Southern Highlands community can come together.
“I'm delighted that the Growing Regions Program is preserving these historic buildings for future generations and providing a home for the thriving Southern Highlands arts scene.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:
“Our Government is building Australia’s future, today announcing almost $80 million will be allocated to community infrastructure projects across regional New South Wales.
“Quality infrastructure in regional areas is invaluable and this funding will build and upgrade key facilities that can be enjoyed by communities for years to come.
“As social interactions change, community infrastructure is more important than ever, which is why the Albanese Labor Government is investing in projects that provide spaces for communities to gather and rebuild social connection.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Wingecarribee Shire Council Mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick:
"Securing federal funding for the Mittagong Playhouse is an incredible milestone for our community. The Playhouse is a cornerstone of our region's cultural identity, and this investment will benefit not only theatre lovers but also local businesses and tourism by attracting visitors and boosting our local economy.
“Since its closure in 2019 due to structural faults, Council has worked tirelessly to bring the Playhouse back to life. With extensive planning, design development, and approval processes already completed, this project will address critical issues like structural integrity, accessibility, fire safety, and asbestos removal while incorporating modern audio-visual technology to create a world-class cultural facility.
"We are so pleased to see our efforts come to fruition and thank The Hon. Stephen Jones MP and the Australian Government for his continued support. This funding ensures the Playhouse will remain a vibrant hub for creativity and connection for the Southern Highlands community.”
[ENDS]
Media Contacts:
Hon. Catherine King MP - Georgia Pretty - 0484 307 122 [email protected]
Hon. Stephen Jones MP - Georgia Roff - 0428 160 565 – [email protected]
