Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Art Gallery of Ballarat Masterplan consultation. Over 400 participants had their say, including locals, artists, educators, students, and visitors, with around 85% from Ballarat and the remainder from surrounding areas. We sought your vision for the Gallery’s layout, programs, accessibility, visitor experience, and connection to the wider community.

Feedback highlighted the Gallery’s valued role as a cultural and creative hub, while also identifying opportunities to enhance accessibility and inclusivity. Participants expressed a desire for a more welcoming environment featuring a larger, vibrant café, comfortable rest areas, family-friendly spaces, and improved lighting. Flexible, multi-purpose spaces for workshops, artists, and community events were also a priority, alongside upgrades such as wider doorways, accessible toilets, and upgraded lifts.

Artists, educators, and students emphasised the need for greater support through dedicated workspaces and engaging, accessible programs. There was also strong interest in more diverse exhibitions and interactive experiences, supported by clearer communication to ensure broad community participation.

We're busy reading through everybody’s comments and will release a report summarising the community's feedback to inform the Masterplan.

This is the first Masterplan ever developed for the Gallery and builds on earlier strategic consultation from 2022–2023. It’s an opportunity to re-test community insights and ensure future decisions reflect current values, ideas, and priorities. Your feedback will help shape the Gallery’s long-term vision, and use of space well beyond the current upgrades.