Former repatriation clinic earmarked for national veterans’ arts hub
A former repatriation clinic building in St Kilda Rd could become a national arts and wellbeing hub for veterans. But the cost of renovation would require cooperation across all governments.
VIC News
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A vacant Defence Department building on a prime site near the CBD could become a key cultural and wellbeing centre for military veterans.
The City of Melbourne is interested in buying the rundown Art Deco property, but renovation and remedial costs of up to $20 million would need to be shared across all governments.
Located in the Victoria Barracks precinct on the corner of St Kilda Rd and Coventry St, the former repatriation commission outpatient clinic has been earmarked for the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum.
ANVAM chairman Mark Johnston said his organisation aimed to restore the 1930s building so it could display works from the Australian War Memorial and major galleries.
“It’s a fantastic property, and would be a shovel-ready project if governments at all levels were willing to tip in some money,” he said.
ARM Architecture has been working pro bono on the project, which includes an extension for a performance studio for dance, music and theatre.
More talks between ANVAM, the Defence Department and Melbourne City Council are due to be held next week.
A Defence Department spokeswoman said the building was surplus to requirements, but the department recognised the importance of veterans’ rehabilitation activities. The spokeswoman said that any future owner would need the finances to reduce the site’s safety risks and protect its heritage.
City of Melbourne CEO Justin Hanney said the council would need to complete due diligence on the land transfer before considering the proposal.
“The building has been vacant for 20 years and is in a state of disrepair,” he said.
“We would also need to view a detailed business case from the proponents on the proposed funding model and maintenance regime, and to ensure the transaction is at no net cost to council.”
The Andrews Government has previously shown interest in an off-market sale, but it is believed the offer was rejected.
The repatriation clinic was originally built for World War I veterans, however it later supported those from World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars.
National Trust of Australia state CEO Simon Ambrose said the building was exceptionally important to the state’s history as the only surviving outpatient clinic for returned servicemen built in Victoria.
“It tells an important story about the experiences of veterans from across Victoria who served
during World War I and later conflicts during the 20th century, and has strong
connections with the veteran community,” he said.
“The National Trust is eager to see a sensitive new use for this beautiful Art Deco building
which recognises and celebrates its rich and complex history.”