CLP unveils plans for Alice Springs' first Multicultural Centre

18 February 2026

• The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its election commitment to establish the first-ever Multicultural Centre in Alice Springs.
   
• The first concept design images of the precinct have been unveiled, offering an exciting look at the state-of-the-art facility.
   
• The $9.8m centre will offer multicultural communities a much-needed place to gather, host events, and share their unique cultural expressions with the community.

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its election commitment to establish the first-ever Multicultural Centre in Alice Springs.

The new venue will be hosted within the Anzac Oval precinct in the heart of the Alice Springs CBD and include a flexible event space accommodating up to 400 people, a stage for performances, catering facilities, and more.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Jinson Charls said the centre would further strengthen Alice Springs’ reputation as a hub for multicultural celebration, and community connection.

“For years, multicultural communities in Alice Springs have championed the need for a vibrant, multipurpose space where cultures can be celebrated and shared - now, we are one step closer to making that vision a reality,” said Mr Charls.

“Developments like this are essential as we continue to deliver on our commitment to restore our unique Territory lifestyle during our year of growth, certainty and security.”

Alice Springs is home to a growing culturally diverse community, with around one in five residents born overseas and more than 20% speaking a language other than English at home.

Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure and Member for Namatjira Bill Yan said the centre would be a welcoming space for people from across cultures and all walks of life.

“Alice Springs has always been home to many people from diverse communities, and we know this facility will be put to good use by these community groups,” he said.

“I look forward to hearing how this permanent home will be used all year round for cultural festivals, dance and music performances, food events and community celebrations."  

“Our government is proud to have funded $9.8 million to ensure this project becomes a reality and delivers lasting benefits for the Alice Springs community.”

Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment and Member for Braitling Joshua Burgoyne said the centre would be a much-needed place for multicultural communities to gather, host events, and share their unique cultural expressions.

“Our multicultural society is such an important part of our unique Territory lifestyle, and it is something we are proud to celebrate,” Mr Burgoyne said.

“I know from talking with people in the community how excited people are to have this dedicated space to celebrate and share their cultures with their families and friends for generations to come."

The Chair of Multicultural Community Services of Central Australia, Mona Ulak, said the centre was highly valued by the community.

“This new Multicultural Centre represents an important milestone for Alice Springs, bringing together people from across Australia and around the world who call the town home," she said. 

"It will provide a welcoming space for a broad range of cultural and community events, strengthening connections among the diverse community of Alice Springs." 

The project is part of the CLP Government’s broader $27 million infrastructure package for sport, lifestyle, cultural, tourism and community infrastructure in Alice Springs.

“We are backing Central Australia with real investment and real momentum, because we are ensuring it is a place where more people want to live, visit, work and invest,” Mr Charls said.

Construction is anticipated to commence in late 2026, with the centre expected to be completed and ready for use by mid-2027.

Media contact: Olivia Sherlock (Minister Charls) 0407 089 389 | Jason McIntosh (Minister Yan) - 0492 166 281 | Ebony Raymond (Minister Burgoyne) – 0476 938 478

L-R
Minister Bill Yan, Minister Jinson Charls, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro and Minister Joshua Burgoyne at the site of the new centre.

Early concept designs for the ASMC