Cairns Performing Arts Centre funding formally approved

The Palaszczuk Government has formally approved its $16.5 million ($15 million for project and $1.5 million GST) funding for the 940-seat Cairns Performing Arts Centre.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Government’s funding was committed on the condition the Turnbull Government matched the Queensland Government’s contribution of $16.5 million (including GST).

The Turnbull Government has refused to offer any more than $11 million ($10 million including $1 million GST).

“My Government is not going to wait any longer or play silly games with Canberra. It’s another example of Malcolm Turnbull short-changing Queenslanders. I urge them to urgently rethink their funding offer,” the Premier said.

“Cairns needs the Performing Arts Centre. I applaud the Council’s vision and the Mayor Bob Manning has my Government’s support and our funding.”

The approval of funding will be a grant funding deed with the Cairns Regional Council, who the Premier met during the Governing from Cairns this month.

“The community excitement and support for the Royal Ballet performance spoke volumes for the importance of the Performing Arts Centre,” the Premier said.

“With our commitment to the Performing Arts Centre, we are also committed to $176 million upgrade to the Cairns Convention Centre.”

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 0417 263 791