The Western Australian government has committed $3 million over two years in the 2026–27 State Budget to continue conservation works at Fremantle Prison, reinforcing its long-term investment in one of the state’s most significant heritage sites.
The funding will support a new phase of conservation projects aimed at preserving the World Heritage-listed site while enhancing the visitor experience at the award-winning tourism destination.
Since 2017, the state government has invested more than $20 million into the site, reflecting an ongoing commitment to protecting Western Australia’s cultural and historical assets.
Fremantle Prison, which dates back more than 170 years, remains one of the state’s most visited heritage attractions.
Welcoming over 200,000 visitors annually, the site hosts tours, school excursions, concerts, and events, highlighting its role as both a cultural landmark and a driver of heritage tourism.
Current works include the fit-out of the former Guards Room, which is being transformed into a new Prison Gift Shop.
The upgrade is part of broader efforts to modernise facilities and create new opportunities for storytelling and visitor engagement within the historic precinct.
The WA government said the latest investment would ensure the continued conservation of the site while unlocking new ways to interpret its history and expand its appeal to both local and international visitors.
Heritage Minister Simone McGurk said the funding would play a vital role in preserving the site’s legacy while supporting tourism and the local economy.
“Fremantle Prison is a much-loved Western Australian icon recognised by UNESCO for its global heritage status as a former convict site.
“At more than 170 years old and more than 30 years since its closure and subsequent reopening as a visitor destination, each project at the Fremantle Prison presents new opportunities for interpretation and visitor experiences.
“Investment in the Prison is essential to protect this important part of our history, interpret more stories of its past and meet World Heritage Listing obligations.
“A visit to the Prison is a popular activity in the Fremantle community, supporting local businesses and the broader Western Australian tourism industry and I look forward to seeing the new events and experiences that can be realised from this investment.”
The government has positioned the funding as part of a broader strategy to safeguard Western Australia’s heritage and environment for future generations, while also strengthening the state’s tourism offering.
With conservation works continuing and new projects underway, Fremantle Prison is expected to further evolve as a dynamic heritage destination, balancing preservation with innovation to ensure its stories remain accessible and engaging for years to come.
