$10 million to build vision for a modern, world-class Art Gallery of WA

A re-elected Cook Labor Government will invest $10 million towards planning and design for a visionary expansion of the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
  • Re-elected Cook Labor Government to put $10 million towards Art Gallery of WA expansion
  • Blueprint to maximise opportunities for cultural tourism and engaging new generations
  • Commitment to help deliver new, first-rate AGWA able to host best art from around the world

A re-elected Cook Labor Government will invest $10 million towards planning and design for a visionary expansion of the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

WA Labor’s commitment will ensure AGWA continues to drive cultural tourism and attract local, national and international visitors for generations to come.

Founded in 1895, AGWA occupies a precinct of three heritage buildings within the Perth Cultural Centre.

The gallery has recently experienced strong growth in visitor numbers, with more families and younger people visiting in particular, following upgrades delivered by the WA Labor Government.

To build on this impressive record, and ensure AGWA remains relevant and continues to be a major drawcard to our State, a re-elected Cook Labor Government will undertake detailed planning and design work before landing on a final proposed design, scale, location and budget.

Initial concept planning is already underway, with a project definition plan on track to be delivered mid-2025. Planning includes a new Contemporary Gallery and refurbishment of the existing Main Gallery, Centenary Gallery and administration buildings. Capital funding will be sought from philanthropists and the Commonwealth Government.

The commitment builds on the Cook Labor Government’s joint investment in the $55 million redevelopment of Perth Cultural Centre, as works begin to deliver a revitalised and more welcoming precinct for families, tourists and lovers of art and culture to enjoy in 2026.

Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:

“Art galleries and cultural attractions are huge drawcards to the world’s greatest cities."

“The Art Gallery of WA has served us well for 130 years, but it needs expansion to continue to inspire Western Australians and visitors to our State for the next 100 years."

“With works underway on the revitalisation of Perth Cultural Centre, we’re looking to the future for the home of visual arts in Western Australia and the many benefits it brings."

“WA Labor’s commitment will lay the groundwork for a world-class, expanded AGWA that is able to drive cultural tourism and host local, national and international contemporary art of all shapes, sizes and types for many decades to come.”

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