City of Busselton Council has taken control of the Saltwater performing arts and convention centre site and says it will now progress outstanding items to bring the facility to its completion and opening.
The Council said the project had been delivered during one of the most challenging periods for the construction industry in recent history, with cost escalation, supply chain disruptions, and labour shortages affecting projects across Western Australia.
“Despite these challenges, the City has remained steadfast in its commitment to deliver this important community asset,” it said in a statement.
“We appreciate the community has waited a long time for the building to reach this point. The City will announce the opening date of Saltwater towards the end of January 2026. To bring the build to its conclusion, the City has given public notice of its intention to borrow $3,500,000 and to use $3,000,000 currently held within the City’s Airport Reserve.”
Items to be completed to enable opening of the facility including installation of audio-visual equipment, minor items associated with completion, and commissioning to ensure the facility meets the highest standards.
“The Council has made this decision in the best interest of the community to ensure the building is completed and any further risk is managed.”
“To maintain transparency, the City will provide a report to Council and the community on interim project learnings and final costs once they are confirmed.”
The Council said the Saltwater Performing Arts and Convention Centre represents a significant investment in the community’s future for the arts, culture, and events, and will be appreciated for decades to come.
“We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to the venue in 2026,” it stated.
Queen Street (between Marine Tce and Adelaide St) will be open from Monday 22 December, however, may experience occasional closures in early 2026, as we work hard to complete the final works, Council advised.
