$607,000 TO SUPPORT BALLARAT’S HISTORIC TRADES HALL 

The Albanese Government is continuing to deliver for regional communities, with more than $23 million committed to four Victorian projects under the latest round of the $400 million regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP).

The funding will support projects across regional, rural and remote Australia, driving local jobs, economic growth and more resilient regional communities. 

This includes $607,000 to support the Ballarat Trades Hall to become a more inclusive, accessible and sustainable venue. 

The Hall’s current infrastructure needs, and lack of disability access are a challenge to the many community groups and organisations who utilise this historic space. 

They also limit the potential for the Hall to host art and music events, stifling the venue’s future financial sustainability. 

Founded in 1883, Ballarat’s Trades Hall is the second oldest purpose-built trades and labour building in the world. 

Following the Eureka Stockade and the formation of the Ballarat Eight Hour Committee, funds were raised to construct the iconic building in its central location in Camp Street.

The Hall’s door is always open for workers seeking support or tourists seeking to experience Ballarat’s rich history. 

This funding is part of more than $23 million invested in this round of the program across four projects in regional, rural and remote Victoria.

Further announcements will be made in due course about projects to be funded in this round across the rest of Australia. 

For more information and a full list of funded projects in Victoria, visit infrastructure.gov.au/regional.

Further applications to the program are currently under assessment. 

Quotes attributable to Member for Ballarat Catherine King:

“The regional Precincts and Partnerships Program is all about delivering meaningful projects in regional Australian that serve communities and support local economies.

“Ballarat’s iconic Trades Hall is a true community asset. It’s used by a multitude of organisations from Saines Lucas Lawyers and the many unions who call the Hall home, to the yoga, health and dance groups who use the space weekly.

“It’s also an integral part of Ballarat’s history, so it’s important not only that the Hall is maintained, but that the people who work here can do so in a safe and appropriate environment.”

Quotes attributable to Ballarat Trades and Labour Council Secretary Angela McCarthy:

“139 years ago the foundation stone was laid for Ballarat Trades Hall and ever since then this place has been central to the industrial and labour history of our city and region. 

“Our Council is proud to carry that tradition and to continue that support for local workers and their families, but our home could really do with some improvements!    

“We are really delighted to receive this support from the Albanese Labor Government and hope that it will support us into the future.”