Frankston Arts Centre takes centre stage with national award

Published on 10 September 2026

The spotlight is firmly on Frankston City after the Frankston Arts Centre was named Australia's Performing Arts Centre of the Year. 

The national accolade, awarded by PAC Australia, the national peak body representing performing arts centres, presenters and producers celebrates excellence in arts leadership, new thinking and best practice, with a focus on lasting impact in communities.  

It recognises more than three decades of bringing people together through arts, culture and shared experiences and celebrates the staff, artists, performers, community groups, and audiences who have helped make the venue one of the nation's most valued cultural assets.  

Frankston Mayor Cr Sue Baker said the award was a proud moment for the Frankston City community. 

"For generations of Frankston residents, the Arts Centre has been the backdrop to special moments and lasting memories. It's where people have attended their first concert, watched their children perform on stage, celebrated milestones, discovered new artists and shared unforgettable experiences with family and friends,” she said. 

"This award belongs to everyone who has been part of that journey, from our dedicated staff and volunteers to the artists, performers, community groups and audiences who have helped make the Arts Centre such a special part of Frankston City’s story. 

"To see that contribution recognised on a national stage is something our entire community can be proud of." 

PAC Australia Executive Director Katherine Connor said the Frankston Arts Centre's success reflected its strong connection to community. 

“Their commitment to inclusion, accessibility and creativity has made the venue a genuine place of belonging, while their work in schools, health settings and public spaces beyond the venue shows how a performing arts centre can meaningfully embed the arts in community life and truly contribute to the heart and cultural positioning of a city,” she said. 

"They have also invested consistently in local artists, creating real pathways for creative development. This award reflects the strength of their approach to building relationships with audiences." 

For more than 30 years, Frankston Arts Centre has played a central role in the city's cultural life, welcoming audiences to performances, exhibitions, community events, and creative experiences. Today, it attracts more than 190,000 visitors each year, with more than half travelling from outside Frankston City.  

With major productions direct from global tours, compelling exhibitions, school performances, local arts groups and community celebrations, the Arts Centre inspires creativity, sparks connection, and brings unforgettable arts experiences to people of all ages, right on their doorstep. 

This national recognition places Frankston Arts Centre among the country’s premier performing arts venues and highlights Frankston City’s emergence as a dynamic and thriving cultural destination. 

For more information about the Frankston Arts Centre: Frankston Arts Centre Frankston Arts Centre 

For more information about PAC Australia and this year’s IMPACT Awards: IMPACT AWARDS – PAC AUSTRALIA