Bob Hawke’s birthplace to become museum under $750,000 Labor plan

The childhood home of former Prime Minister Bob Hawke would be transformed into a museum in his honour if Bill Shorten wins the election — see how much the plan will cost taxpayers.

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The childhood home of former Prime Minister Bob Hawke would be transformed into a museum in his honour if Bill Shorten wins the election.

Mr Shorten has promised up to $750,000 to purchase and renovate Hawke House, in the South East town of Bordertown, that has been up for sale since 2015.

The funding will be used to transform the three-bedroom, one-bathroom property into a museum celebrating Hawke’s life and achievements, Australian democracy and civic life.

“As prime minister, Bob was a brilliant consensus-builder and a great conservationist, whose leadership helped preserve Kakadu, the Daintree and the Franklin for future generations,” Mr Shorten said.

“Preserving Hawke House is a modest act of conservation compared to those great deeds, but it acknowledges the legacy Bob has left on the nation.”

Hawke House was built in 1884 by the National Bank and operated as a bank until the branch was closed in June 1895.

It was a private home until 1897 when it was bought by the Congregational Church for £420 to be used as a manse.

Hawke House is currently on the market for $295,000.