THE Mundaring Cultural Hub has taken a major step forward, with council approving the project’s concept design and business case.

This marks the transition into detailed design and procurement for the shire’s largest ever infrastructure project.

This is more than a milestone. It marks the beginning of a once-in-a-generation transformation for Mundaring, with the cultural hub set to become the largest single investment in community infrastructure in the shire’s history.

The project is fully funded through a $15 million Australian government Thriving Suburbs program grant, alongside funding planned and budgeted by the shire over previous years.

Located in the heart of Mundaring, the cultural hub will bring together a diverse range of community, cultural and civic uses, including art galleries and workshop spaces, contemporary library with dedicated youth and maker spaces, visitor centre, local history museum, café, civic and community spaces, meeting rooms and flexible-use areas.

Positioned directly across from the Sculpture Park, the cultural hub will become a central destination for community life supporting events, exhibitions, learning opportunities and celebrations, while strengthening the connection between people, place and culture.

Bullwinkel MP Trish Cook said the project represented a significant milestone for the region.

“The cultural hub was just an idea when I was the deputy shire president, and I am so excited to see the project concept design approved now as the federal member for Bullwinkel,” Ms Cook said.

“The cultural hub will become a central destination for community life, and I look forward to seeing it come to fruition, with the approved design concept and business case now providing a clear and deliverable path forward.”

Shire President Paige McNeil said the approval marks a defining moment for the community.

“This is the beginning of the most significant project our shire has ever delivered and a turning point for our town centre,” Ms McNeil said.

“The Mundaring Cultural Hub is more than a building. It is the catalyst for a broader vision that will revitalise the town centre and create new opportunities for our community.

“This includes a range of future housing options, helping ensure people can continue to live and stay connected to the Perth Hills community they value.

“The cultural hub reflects what our community has told us matters most. It will be a place to come together, experience arts and culture, and celebrate community life.

“The project is a cornerstone of the shire’s town centre revitalisation, boosting local businesses while creating a vibrant destination that attracts visitors and expands tourism opportunities, strengthening Mundaring’s long-term economic and social vitality.”

Extensive community engagement over many years has shaped the vision and priorities for the hub with the approved design concept and business case providing a clear and deliverable path forward.

Detailed design and procurement will now begin, with a construction partner expected to be appointed later in 2026.

Construction is anticipated to commence in 2027, and the community will be kept informed via the Mundaring Cultural Hub project page as the project progresses through its next stages.