New Frankston Arts Centre forecourt takes centre stage

Published on 04 December 2025

The iconic Frankston Arts Centre (FAC) forecourt now boasts a grand new entrance, making it more accessible, inviting and safe — while highlighting Frankston City’s artistic heart.

The $2.1 million redevelopment was designed to accommodate a diverse range of visitors, reinforcing FAC’s position as a much-loved cultural hub.

The project was initially planned in 2018, however following the COVID-19 pandemic, priorities shifted to support the community, and the project was delayed to future years.

Project delivery required considerable time to plan as it was particularly complex, with services relocated by providers, and construction taking place around a full schedule of live events, ensuring the Centre remained fully operational throughout the works.

Key features of the redesign, informed by community feedback, include:

• Universal access: Upgraded pathways, ramps, and smoother surfaces for prams, wheelchairs, grand pianos, and hospitality trolleys.
• Safer traffic flow: Separate areas for cars and pedestrians, with clearly marked drop-off and pick-up zones and relocation of the bus stop.
• Enhanced lighting: Modern fixtures that improve safety and create a warm, inviting atmosphere for evening visitors.
• Additional seating and shelter: More places to rest and wait comfortably out of the sun and rain.
• Cultural water feature and landscaping: Created with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, this feature honours Frankston’s First People. Reflecting the region’s waterways and the eel’s cultural significance, it symbolises abundance, vitality, and connection—linking the flowing water outside to the storytelling and creativity celebrated within.
• Dynamic signage: A larger, street-facing screen provides real-time event updates, while modern signage guides visitors seamlessly.

Cr David Asker said the project is a win for the whole community.

 “The Arts Centre is one of Frankston City’s biggest drawcards, attracting on average 160,000 visitors each year (though last year was a record year reaching 195,000 visitors including about 40,000 students).

“Almost half of these come from outside the municipality, playing a vital role in our local economy by supporting nearby cafes, restaurants, and shopping centres,” he said.

“This redevelopment cements the Arts Centre’s position as not just an arts and culture institution, but a key player in the vitality of the broader Frankston community.

“It’s more than just an upgrade—it’s a celebration of Frankston’s commitment to art, accessibility, and the arts-loving community who make it all happen.”

Barbara Crook, Chair of the Frankston Arts Advisory Board, also welcomed the upgrade.

“This forecourt transformation is a powerful reminder that art belongs at the heart of our city,” she said.

“Council has created a space designed to spark creativity, invite connection, and celebrate the cultural identity of Frankston. We’re proud to see a design that reflects community voices and honours our artistic heritage.”

The upgrade follows another special occasion for the Arts Centre, the opening of the Gail Dudeck Lounge at the mezzanine gallery of the Dress Circle.

Frankston City Mayor Kris Bolam JP said Gail was a passionate and tireless champion of the arts. Her visionary leadership was instrumental in the creation of the Frankston Cutural Centre, now proudly known as the Frankston Arts Centre.

“The Frankston Arts Centre continually strives to improve its facilities to reflect the community it serves and to recognise those who helped bring it to life,” he said.

“This dedication was recently celebrated with the opening of the Gail Dudeck Lounge, honouring one of the Centre’s most passionate advocates.

“Continuing this commitment, the newly refurbished forecourt now offers an inviting outdoor space that enhances the overall visitor experience and strengthens the connection between the centre and its community.”

 Gail’s granddaughter Amy Dudeck added:

“Seeing the forecourt transformed alongside the dedication of the Gail Dudeck Lounge is deeply meaningful to our family,” she said.

“My grandmother believed the Arts Centre should be a place where everyone feels welcome, and this upgrade truly reflects that vision—creating a space that is accessible, vibrant, and connected to the community she loved.”

 Frankston City is attracting unprecedented growth, development, and investment from the public and private sector and continually growing visitor numbers. Projects like the Arts Centre forecourt redevelopment are part of Council’s commitment to ensuring the city is a great place to live, work, play and invest.