Building works have officially commenced on the new Chung Wah Community Centre in Bentley.
The $10 million development, supported by the Western Australian government through a key election commitment, will create a modern, multi-purpose hub for multicultural engagement and services in the heart of Victoria Park.
Premier Roger Cook joined Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti, Victoria Park MLA Hannah Beazley, and representatives from the Chung Wah Association at a sod-turning ceremony on January 22, 2026, to mark the start of construction.
Located on the corner of Hedley Street and Nyamup Way, the new centre will provide a significant boost to the capacity of the Chung Wah Association — the oldest and largest not-for-profit culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) organisation in Western Australia, established in 1909.
The facility will include a multipurpose function space, youth area, daycare and playgroup facilities, office space, meeting rooms, and amenities.
It will also house the Chung Wah Community Care Centre, which provides aged care and social support to seniors from Chinese and Southeast Asian backgrounds.
WA Premier Roger Cook said the project reflects his government’s ongoing commitment to building safer and more inclusive communities across the state.
“My government’s priority to build a safe and inclusive Western Australia means people will feel secure at home and in their community.
“Western Australia’s Chinese communities have made significant contributions to the development of this state.
“This investment in a more inclusive community delivers on a key election commitment and acknowledges the role the Chung Wah Association plays within WA’s Chinese community.”
Dr Tony Buti said the new community centre represents an important milestone for multicultural engagement and inclusivity in Western Australia.
Buti stated that this “marks a significant milestone in bringing the new Chung Wah Community Centre a step closer to fruition.
“This new community centre will be so much more than a building – it will serve as a vibrant hub where people of all ages can connect, celebrate cultural diversity with pride, and inspire a love of language and learning in future generations.”
Victoria Park MLA Hannah Beazley said the Bentley facility would strengthen existing networks and enhance services for local residents.
“This facility will be a fantastic addition to the thriving multicultural community of Victoria Park.
“The Chung Wah Association has been supporting WA’s Chinese community for over 110 years, and it’s wonderful to see that support will continue through this centre.”
Western Australia is home to more than 116,000 people of Chinese ancestry, with over 28,000 residents born in China — a 5 per cent increase since 2016.
The new Chung Wah Community Centre is expected to play a central role in supporting these growing communities for decades to come.
