Funding has been allocated in the Northern Territory Government’s 2024 Budget, with capacity at the venue to increase from 4350 seats to 5550 seats.
The upgrade is designed to ensure Darwin can host more major events, especially those with seating requirements beyond its current capacity.
Darwin Convention Centre’s expansion work will see upgrades to its public amenities and audiovisual equipment. Also planned is a 236-bed hotel at the venue, which is situated at Darwin Waterfront.
The Northern Territory Government recently signed a development agreement with Singapore hotel developers CEL to deliver the Darwin Convention Centre hotel.
In the Territory’s 2024 Budget, $68 million is allocated to tourism, with an additional $41 million for NT Major Events.
“Tourism and major events are key pillars of the Territory’s economy,” says Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler. “My government is backing projects that support growth in these industries.
“We’re boosting capacity of Darwin Convention Centre because we need facilities to bring bigger and better events to the Territory.”
Darwin Convention Centre has also recently collaborated with Winya – a profit-for-purpose business that supports Indigenous training and employment growth – to fit the venue’s furniture with Larrakia textiles featuring First Nations artistry that celebrates cultural heritage of the region.
The collection showcases the talents of local Larrakia artists.
“As a proud Gulumoerrgin Larrakia woman, it is incredible to see our art come to life in different forms,” says contributing artist Mim Cole.
“I’m so happy and grateful Darwin Convention Centre is showcasing our art on this beautiful furniture on Larrakia country.”
The furniture refurbishment follows the venue’s recent renaming of four of its meeting rooms with traditional Larrakia names.
In consultation with Larrakia Elders, the spaces were named after sea creatures to reflect the venue’s position within the Darwin Waterfront Precinct.
“As a business situated on Larrakia Country, we acknowledge the importance of honouring the rich cultural heritage of Darwin’s Traditional Owners,” says Darwin Convention Centre general manager Peter Savoff.
“We work closely with the Larrakia people to ensure guests visiting our venue gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Larrakia culture.”
