Modernisation project
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Project scope
The Queensland Government through Arts Queensland is leading a $8.5 million infrastructure project to modernise the Judith Wright Arts Centre (JWAC) tenancy, rehearsal and other back of house spaces. The project supports the evolving infrastructure needs and future growth of Queensland’s arts sector.
Benefits:
- better building connectivity and purpose for collaboration and sharing
- more spaces for creative development
- new tenancies and hot desk opportunities
- improved disability access, security and safety
- support for Indigenous arts by making new meeting, studio and hot desk space available for Indigenous creatives and assisting the growth ambitions of Indigenous tenants
- conserve the heritage values of the building
The project will:
- increase rehearsal and studio spaces from three to eight accessible rehearsal spaces
- support new office tenancies and provision of hot desks
- modernise offices and amenities
- create new flexible breakout and collaborative spaces including a large boardroom with video conferencing facilities, a focus room and a shared breakout space
- upgrade security systems and safety
- compliant disability access across all levels of the JWAC building
Construction activity:
- The building foyer and entry points on levels 1 and 2 are open to the public and tenants throughout the project.
- During the construction phase, the performance space will not be available for public bookings.
- The galleries for the IMA and Outer Space will remain open and free of charge as usual with public welcome to visit the exhibitions during opening hours. See the IMA and Outer Space websites for current exhibition programming.
- The refurbishment commenced in October 2024 with expected completion in September 2025.
- Please note that from 22 May 2025 until September 2025 the passenger lift will be unavailable due to the installation of a new lift. Alternative access to level 2 upper foyer and offices, and levels 3 and 4 will be via the fire stairs and the goods lift. On-site signage will provide instructions.
Frequently asked questions
The Queensland Government through Arts Queensland is leading a $8.5 million infrastructure project to modernise the JWAC tenancy, rehearsal and other back of house spaces. The project reflects the recommendations and outcomes of a design and visioning consultation process. The project supports the evolving infrastructure needs and future growth of Queensland’s arts sector.
During the refurbishment, the building will remain open to the public and tenants. The foyer and access entry points on levels 1 and 2 are expected to remain open and available with minimal disruption.
On site construction commenced in October 2024. The project is due to be completed in September 2025.
Works will be scheduled to minimise disruption to JWAC tenant operations. Noisy works will be limited (as far as possible) to 6-9.30am.
Bookings are expected to resume when the project is complete.
From 22 May 2025 until the end of September 2025, the passenger lift will be will be unavailable due to the installation of a new lift. Alternative access to level 2 upper foyer and offices and levels 3 and 4 will be via the goods lift and fire stairs. On-site signage will provide instructions.