NAVA questions NT Government’s backflip on new gallery
Media Release
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) has expressed concern following the Northern Territory Government’s decision to abandon plans to open the new Northern Territory Art Gallery in Darwin’s CBD, instead launching an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to determine its future use.
NAVA urges the NT Government to reconsider its announcement, warning that the decision risks wasting years of planning and public investment.
Penelope Benton, Executive Director of NAVA, questions the logic of launching an EOI for a project that’s near completion: “This building was purpose-built as a public gallery following years of planning and consultation. It’s almost finished. To walk away from that now simply doesn’t make sense.”
Designed to museum standards, the building includes climate control, high ceilings, and security infrastructure specifically for housing and exhibiting artworks, including the NT’s extraordinary public collection, much of which remains in storage. Two major commissions are already underway through federal investment via Creative Australia.
“While the gallery can submit an EOI and build a business case, that shouldn’t be necessary,” Benton said. “Launching a costly and time-consuming EOI process is inefficient and delays public benefit. The building was specifically designed to be a gallery, and it should operate as one. No alternative use is likely to deliver the same cultural, educational, or social value.”
Relocating the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) to the CBD was a strategic move to improve accessibility, increase visitation, and contribute to urban renewal.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to open a world-class public gallery that tells the stories of the NT, supports artists, and strengthens community,” said Benton. “The gallery is nearly complete. Let’s not waste more public money on processes designed to question its very purpose. NAVA urges the Government to honour the original vision and see it open the gallery to the public.”
Media Enquiries
Leya Reid
media@visualarts.net.au
About NAVA
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) is a Membership organisation that brings together the many voices of the contemporary arts sector to improve fundamental conditions of work and practice. We do this through advocacy, education and the Code of Practice. For further information on NAVA visit www.visualarts.net.au
Image credit
Concept designs for the Northern Territory Art Gallery by Ashford Architects.
ID: Architectural rendering of the Northern Territory Art Gallery—modern red-toned building with tall vertical panels, central glass entry, and people gathered out front. Trees frame the scene under a clear blue sky.
