ACT Government seeks construction industry partner for Canberra theatre project

The ACT Government is seeking a construction industry partner for the expansion and renewal of the Canberra Theatre Centre.

Suitably experienced and qualified contractors are now invited to submit an Expression of Interest to work in partnership with Major Projects Canberra and the Cultural Facilities Corporation.

The Government is seeking construction industry involvement and partnership to advance the project through an early contractor involvement (ECI) model.

This will be a two-stage process, starting with a request for Expressions of Interest, closing 13th August 2024.

Following assessment of the Expressions of Interest, the ACT Government will invite shortlisted tenderers to respond to a Request for Tender.

The successful tenderer will highlight how their experience and capability will integrate project objectives with design, plans for construction, optimising delivery outcomes and timeframes, and provide value for money.

This process builds on the great work already delivered by the Project’s Design Partner, led by Architectus, Henning Larsen and international theatre designers Arup who will continue to support the process.

Extensive consultation that has been undertaken throughout the planning and design stage will inform the brief for this process.

The ACT Government and Design Partner have received valuable insights from priority stakeholder groups, a performing arts reference group, community consultation, staff workshops and engagement with the local and national performing arts sector.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr noted “the new Canberra Theatre Centre is part of a consistent pipeline of infrastructure developments being delivered in our city.

“The revitalisation of the Centre will enhance our city centre as a lively destination for entertainment and dining, day and night, as the centrepiece of the Canberra Civic and Cultural District.

“It will strengthen our economy by attracting cultural tourism to Canberra and create more jobs in the arts, hospitality and construction sectors.”

ACT Minister for the Arts, Tara Cheyne added “Canberra will be able to attract the world-class performances Canberrans currently have to spend a lot of money on travel and accommodation to see.

“This is a city-shaping project - not just in physical presence but in what it will deliver for the arts, arts workers, our audiences, and our creative economy throughout all of Canberra.”

The selected construction industry partner will be announced early 2025.

For more information visit tenders.act.gov.au.

Image: Concept design for the new Canberra Theatre Centre showing the lyric theatre facing east.