The Sod Turning Ceremony:Pictured L to R: Gallery Board Chair Jan Boynton, City CEO Andrew Cooney, Bendigo Art Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot, The Hon Maree Edwards MP Member for Bendigo West, Mayor Cr Thomas Prince, DJAARA CEO Cassandra Lewis and The
Renowned for attracting world-class exhibitions — including Elvis: Direct from Graceland, Grace Kelly: Style Icon, Marilyn Monroe and Frida Kahlo: In Her Own Image — the gallery has long drawn visitors from across Australia and around the globe. Now, this iconic cultural institution is preparing for its biggest transformation yet, with a major redevelopment set to elevate Bendigo’s thriving arts scene and secure the gallery’s place as one of Australia’s leading regional art destinations for years to come.
While the gallery is temporarily closed during construction, anticipation is already building for what will become a reimagined, modern cultural space designed to inspire visitors for generations to come.
A Major Transformation for a Regional Icon
The redevelopment will deliver a significant expansion of the gallery, including:
The project reflects Bendigo Art Gallery’s growing reputation as one of Australia’s leading regional galleries, renowned for bringing internationally recognised exhibitions to regional Victoria.
Worth the Wait
Over the years, Bendigo Art Gallery has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors through exhibitions that have captured national attention and transformed Bendigo into a major arts tourism destination.
The redevelopment is designed not only to expand exhibition capacity, but to create a more immersive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Construction commenced in early 2026, with the gallery expected to reopen in early 2028.
When the doors reopen, visitors can expect a refreshed gallery experience that blends history, culture, creativity and contemporary design — all within one of regional Victoria’s most iconic institutions.
For redevelopment updates and project information, visit:
Bendigo Art Gallery Redevelopment Project
