A new tempo for Perth’s home of music and entertainment.
As part of the $1.7 billion Perth City Deal, $150.3 million has been allocated to the Perth Concert Hall redevelopment, comprising $134.3 million from the WA Government, $12 million from the Australian Government, and $4 million from the City of Perth.
The investment will restore the much-loved heritage building’s architectural integrity, preserve its renowned acoustics, distinctive features and enhance the surrounding outdoor spaces. The improved facilities will allow for broader community engagement and equitable access.
Architecture credited to WITH and OMA, animation credited to Panizzon Studio.
The redevelopment of this historic building will introduce a range of enhancements designed to elevate the venue as a premier destination for the performing arts.
Key features of the project include improved accessibility from street level as well as improved backstage facilities, which will support patrons, artists and production teams, ensuring seamless performances and a better overall experience for all.
A complete replacement of seating will not only enhance comfort but also improve sightlines in the hall, making every concert an unforgettable occasion, while preserving the building’s world class acoustics. A new fully automated stage lift will streamline production logistics, making it easier to host a diverse array of performances.
This exciting project will realise a long-standing commitment to provide WASO with a home, co-locating the administrative and orchestral staff in the one location.
A full revitalisation of the backstage facilities will improve performer experience, ensuring the Perth Concert Hall retains its reputation as a desired performance venue into the future.
Safety and compliance upgrades will be prioritised, with significant improvements to the building fabric and systems throughout to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees.
Visitors will benefit from expansion of the level two foyer towards the river which will be home to new bar areas, providing convenient refreshment options and fostering a lively social atmosphere before and after performances. The addition of landscaped event spaces will create inviting outdoor areas for gatherings and festivals, enriching the cultural fabric of the precinct.
Venue closes
Contract award and construction commences
Construction
Construction complete, testing and handover
Official opening
The management order for the building was held by the City of Perth for 50 years. It has now returned to the State for ongoing care and control.
The Perth Concert Hall project is governed by an inter-agency Steering Committee with the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) as the Chair. The Steering Committee has representation from the following WA Government agencies:
As well as:
Throughout the delivery of the project, the stakeholders will continue to be engaged, to ensure the vision of the Perth Concert Hall is delivered. Some of the stakeholders have included:
For the redevelopment to take place safely, the Perth Concert Hall and its forecourts are closed to the public during construction works.
Demolition works are underway until July 2025. Main works are set to commence November 2025.
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The striking mid-century architecture will receive important structural upgrades along with improved accessibility within and around the concert hall, new spaces for events and improved seating and rehearsal spaces.
Funding for the refurbishment of the 51-year-old heritage-listed building includes $134.3 million from the Western Australian Government, $12 million from the Australian Government and $4 million from the City of Perth.
The concert hall, forecourts and car park will be closed to the public during construction works, with the venue anticipated to re-open in early 2028.
Design firms WITH Architecture Studio and Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) are the lead architects for the redevelopment works, which include:
The Perth Concert Hall hosts more than 160 events each year and, once redeveloped, will be reinstated as Western Australia's premium entertainment precinct and provide a long-awaited home for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO).
Originally designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, the venue was the first concert hall to be built in Australia after World War II, with its doors opening to the public on 26 January 1973.
For more information about the WASO program, visit www.waso.com.au. The 2025 program will be released on 28 November 2024.