FAQ

Consultation with the Aboriginal community identified it is important that the centre be directly located in a natural bushland setting so that the centre and the outdoor spaces are connected in a culturally appropriate way to the bush.

After consultation with the Aboriginal community, the eastern side of the lake considered to be culturally unsuitable. The Wetland Education area is considered to be a place of cultural significance for Aboriginal Women and children, but it is not culturally appropriate for Aboriginal Men to have an ongoing presence there.

The study found that a co-located Aboriginal Cultural and Visitors Centre is feasible if it is subsidised and managed by the City of Cockburn.

It is estimated that the capital works cost will be $6 million and the City will apply for grants of up to $1 million.

Extensive community consultation was undertaken with the local Aboriginal community, Aboriginal Reference Group and Wetlands Education Precinct group. Key stakeholders, Elected Members, and key staff were also contacted and offered an interview by the consultants. Two public meetings and an online survey was also advertised and conducted as part of the process. A total of 70 people provided feedback to the consultants.

The estimated total floor size is 1,500 sqm plus parking and outdoor landscaped spaces (which equates to 6,500 sqm).  The Aboriginal Cultural and Visitors Centre facility will require outdoor undercover spaces of 1200 sqm plus access to surrounding bushland.  Inside the centre a space will be required for a static and interactive museum display, cultural awareness training, educational, and general activities, a café and visitors centre.  Spaces will be available for use or hire for a range of cultural and other visitors activities.