The Rudd Labor Government will provide more than $3.67 million to complete facilities at the Cultural Centre at the Italian Forum in Leichhardt, NSW.

Anthony Albanese, Member for Grayndler, made the announcement today with the Mayor of Leichhardt, Jamie Parker.

Mr Albanese said that this project is worth over $7.4 million in total.

“It is expected to support 200 jobs during construction, as well as another 125 jobs on an ongoing basis, delivering a real economic boost for Leichhardt.”

“And our funding will realise the Forum’s Cultural Centre vision, giving people access to a theatre/auditorium, function/conference areas and an exhibition space for a local Indigenous Artist Cooperative,” he said.

“The Italian Forum has long been a favourite destination for people in the Leichardt community with its restaurants, shops, offices and piazza. Now its appeal will be even greater and will stimulate the local economy.”

The Leichhardt Municipal Council project is expected to include:

• Completion of the fit out of the multipurpose Cultural Centre;


• Construction of ground floor function/conference areas and exhibition space;


• Installation of lighting and electrical works, communications, security and climate control systems; and


• Advanced systems to reduce the energy consumption in the building and improve acoustic and thermal insulation.

Mr Albanese said that the funding was part of our Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, which was delivering a record $1 billion for nearly 5,000 projects across the nation.

“Across Australia, we are building and modernising community facilities in partnership with local governments.”

The funding is conditional upon the council formalising a contract with the Government and meeting relevant conditions.

Anthony making the $3.67 million funding announcement with local residents and guests including state member Verity Firth (right) and Cultural Centre president Francesco Giaccobe (2nd right).