Thebarton Theatre getting $17m upgrade, among dozens of other SA projects co-funded by State Government and councils

The beloved Thebarton Theatre is getting upgraded as part of a $290m jobs creation program. See the full list of government co-funded projects here.

The renowned Thebarton Theatre will be upgraded as part of a $290m jobs stimulus program targeting community infrastructure across the state.

A new ground-level entry foyer, auditorium timber flooring and roof solar panels are included in the $17m theatre upgrade, among 57 shovel-ready projects funded by a state and local government scheme.

The $4m in State Government funding will kickstart the project by unlocking the remainder of the funds.

The Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program, unveiled in November’s State Budget, involves $106.9m in state funding and a further $118.5m in councils’ money.

Premier Steven Marshall said the Thebarton Theatre upgrade would transform the “much-loved Adelaide icon”.

“The upgrades will completely rejuvenate and transform the historic theatre, bringing with it countless opportunities for use – especially for live music,” he said.

Mr Marshall said this would add to almost $2m in support provided for live music during the pandemic.

Premier Steven Marshall said the Thebarton Theatre upgrade would transform the “much-loved Adelaide icon”. Picture: Tom Huntley

Other projects funded under the scheme include $7.3m for the Mt Barker Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre, $900,000 for high-risk intersection upgrades in the Coorong District Council and $800,000 for a Mt Gambier shared walk/cycle path extension.

A Salisbury recreation precinct redevelopment gets $7.18m and Thorndon Park Super Playground is allocated $1.25m.

Treasurer Rob Lucas said the total stimulus program, which includes some federal funding, was estimated to be between $270m to $290m.

“This program not only provides a huge shot in the arm for the state’s economy, it delivers exciting new developments and facilities upgrades that will transform and enhance communities right across South Australia,” Mr Lucas said.

“This program is an immediate and targeted cash injection that will deliver long-lasting, tangible benefits for families and communities in every corner of the state.”

The projects – part of a $4bn stimulus program aimed at kickstarting the economy after the pandemic-induced recession – are designed to be completed within two years.

SA has been saddled with the nation’s highest unemployment rate for the past two months. Official figures released last Thursday show SA’s unemployment rate now sits at 6.8 per cent, down from 7.1 per cent last month.

The State Government has trumpeted other official figures, based on payroll data, showing SA is the best-performing state on jobs and wages growth since the pandemic erupted last March.