Built in 1972 and last upgraded in 1993, the Convention Wing redevelopment, supported by $15 million in state and $10 million in federal government funding, will deliver a modern, accessible and inclusive venue for the community and visitors.
Key improvements will include:
- A new modern 2,000 seat auditorium (800 seat banquet style) offering exceptional acoustics, flexible seating configurations and the ability to partition spaces for concurrent events, catering to a wide range of performances, conferences and presentation requirements.
- Eight state-of-the-art function rooms featuring integrated audio-visual technology, high-speed connectivity and adaptable layouts to accommodate small to medium-sized corporate or community functions.
- Exhibition and conference spaces designed for versatility and scale, capable of hosting large conferences, trade shows and cultural and civic events with open plan layouts, seamless access and modern amenities to enhance delegate experience.
- Arrival plaza and tourism event space providing a welcoming and functional entry point and improved wayfinding.
- New food and beverage kitchens and bars designed to deliver a comprehensive experience with diverse catering options, new hospitality facilities and spaces that enhance networking, social interaction and overall visitor experience.
- Enhanced sound and light systems in the retained Theatrette with tiered seating up to 177 people and improved accessibility, supported by a new pre-function foyer with balcony access.
- An enlarged green room with dedicated amenities and accessible stage entry will offer greater opportunities to host a variety of small-scale events not previously achievable.
The tender from Albury-based Zauner Construction Pty Ltd totals $32.8 million excluding GST allowing the project to proceed to construction.
Council also resolved that the contract be delivered within the endorsed tender amount, with any increase to the approved budget requiring a further decision of Council. Authority has been delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to manage and negotiate any necessary scope adjustments or cost variations.
“Council has resolved to accept the tender so the project can move to the construction phase within the approved budget,” Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said.
“The decision recognises the external funding secured for the redevelopment. It is important that we now manage delivery carefully and maintain strong oversight of costs.”
Construction is scheduled to commence in April 2026. Once completed, it’s anticipated the redevelopment will:
- Generate an estimated $124.9 million economic contribution during construction, creating 336 full-time equivalent jobs.
- Deliver ongoing annual economic benefits of $22.5 million, supporting 267 FTE jobs.
- Increase AlburyCity annual revenue from approximately $1.1 million to almost $5 million by 2028–29.
- Double conference seating capacity to 2,000 patrons and enhance exhibition space.
- Act as a catalyst for the revitalisation of the Albury CBD and improve connections to the Cultural Precinct including QEII Square, MAMA and the LibraryMuseum (improving public amenity and accessibility).
- Position the AEC as a leading regional conference destination, attracting more tourism and events.
“Council’s role now is to ensure the project is delivered responsibly and in a way that strengthens the broader cultural precinct,” Mr Mack said.
Learn more about hosting business events and conferences in Albury Woodonga here.
