This election commitment would put $2.915 million towards Central Deborah Gold Mine Revitalisation Stage 2, which will include:
- full refurbishment of the Gold Museum
- refreshed historic display rooms
- integration of technology with working mine equipment to create immersive visitor experiences
- the creation of a function space for education and large groups
- accessibility upgrades across the site
This project will help tell the stories of the Central Deborah gold mine and Bendigo’s broader gold story and also ensure people of all abilities will have access to the unique experience offered by the historic gold mine tourist attraction.
With the recent announcement by the Albanese Labor Government that Victoria’s Goldfields - home to the most extensive and best surviving goldrush landscapes in the world - have been added to Australia’s World Heritage Tentative list, this project is set to revitalise one of the central pieces of this newly listed area of significance.
World Heritage status is expected to boost tourism, with an additional 2.2 million visitors annually, and contribute over $1.8 billion to Victoria’s regional economy.
This project will deliver strategic tourism infrastructure that is forecast to increase visitation, improve the visitor experience, and increase length of stay and spend in Bendigo and the region.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP:
“Regional Victoria is a vibrant community with a rich gold mining history.
“This project will encourage more visitors to come to Bendigo, stay in Bendigo and learn more about our story.
“I’ve delivered over $415 million in funding to the Bendigo electorate since the election of the Labor Government in 2022, and a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will continue to deliver for people in our community.
“Federal Labor is delivering better local roads and more community infrastructure for Bendigo.”
