Work has begun on a major redevelopment of the Albury Entertainment Centre’s Convention Wing in New South Wales, marking a milestone for the Border region’s cultural and visitor economy.
The extensive refurbishment will expand the existing Convention Wing, adding modern pre-function spaces, offices, and meeting rooms.
The upgrade will feature an enhanced theatrette, a new loading dock, and an expanded multipurpose events space. This will effectively double the facility’s capacity, enabling it to accommodate up to 2,000 delegates.
The project is backed by a AU$30 million funding package, combining AU$10 million from the federal government, AU$15 million from the New South Wales government, and AU$5 million from Albury City Council. It forms a key part of the federal government’s broader AU$80 million Albury Wodonga Regional Projects initiative.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said upgrading the wing to modern exhibition standards would boost the regional visitor economy significantly.
“With increased seating capacity, the centre will be in the box seat to promote Albury as a leading conference destination, strategically located between Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra,” Minister Moriarty said.
Beyond increasing event capacity, the design focuses on better integrating the city’s cultural precinct, creating seamless connections between QEII Square, the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA), the Albury LibraryMuseum, and local retail and hospitality venues.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack described the project as a game-changer that addresses a critical infrastructure need for the growing city.
“By transforming an ageing facility into a modern, fit-for-purpose venue and doubling our conference and event capacity, we’re positioning Albury as a leading destination for major business events, exhibitions and community gatherings,” Mack said.
“Upgrading this tired infrastructure is essential to ensure we remain competitive and able to meet the expectations of today’s event organisers and visitors.”
Federal Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain added that the state-of-the-art venue will cement Albury-Wodonga as a vibrant, year-round destination while improving local liveability and job creation.
Construction is expected to support a significant number of local jobs throughout the build, with completion anticipated for early 2028.
