The ACT Government will upgrade the Gorman House Arts Centre and Lanyon Homestead.

“Both Lanyon Homestead and the Gorman House Arts Centre are important places for local artists and the wider community,” arts minister Tara Cheyne said. “This investment will help to improve access to these sites and enhance their safety.”

The former Shearer’s Sleeping Quarters at Lanyon Homestead will be fully restored and reused as artist studios within “a beautiful natural setting sure to inspire artists and visitors alike”, Ms Cheyne said. 

Lanyon Homestead is listed on the ACT Heritage Register for its rich Aboriginal, historic, and natural values.

This significant investment in conservation and ongoing upgrades of Lanyon Homestead will allow the Cultural Facilities Corporation to continue to lead the way in heritage and environmental management, while creating greater opportunities for Canberrans and visitors to appreciate the history and heritage of the ACT, Ms Cheyne said.

• New ACT arts prize celebrates Lanyon Homestead (4 November 2022)

The ACT Budget Review also secures $7.9 million to upgrade the Gorman House Arts Centre. Following the Australian Government’s commitment of $5 million in its October Budget, this brings the total investment in this important project to $12.9 million.

Gorman House Arts Centre will celebrate its centenary in 2024. “The arts facility will be comprehensively renovated to ensure it can support and inspire the next generation of artists in Canberra, while respecting the rich heritage of the building,” Ms Cheyne said.

The Gorman House Arts Centre upgrades will include a high-quality performance space, dedicated dance and theatre rehearsal and workshop spaces, new café space, and studios that support a social and collaborative atmosphere.

Critical building upgrades will make the building more accessible, safer, and energy efficient.

The government has consulted resident arts organisations and the community, and work will start this year.

“These important projects will build on the Statement of Ambition for the Arts, helping to position Canberra as Australia’s arts capital,” Ms Cheyne said.

“Canberra’s unique heritage and arts facilities are an important part of our story,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said. “The Government will invest in these facilities to ensure they can continue to provide important spaces for artists and the community to enjoy.

“Improving and restoring our heritage sites also supports jobs and provides additional tourism experiences for those visiting our region.”