The precinct encompasses the Ararat Town Hall and Ararat Gallery with the renovations increasing the space available to both groups. 

The renovation cost more than $8 million and took about 15 months to complete.

Among the works includes a new foyer, toilets and green room for the town hall, new lighting and sound equipment, increased space for the gallery as well as a temperature-controlled storeroom for art collections not on display.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Allan Bawden said the project was funded through multiple sources. 

“The initial budget included $945,000 from the federal government, $5.2 million from the state, $1.5 million from council, with $100,000 from community donors – a total budget of $7.7 million,” he said.

“Being an old building there were certain things you discover during construction. The total budget went up by about $340,000 or four per cent of the cost.”

Mr Bawden said the council covered the extra costs.

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The renovations will create new jobs in both the gallery and town hall.

“We have extended our hours of opening in the gallery so will put on one extra casual at the moment,” Mr Bawden said.

“We will have one extra full time staff member in the town hall as well as two casuals. We will need a fair bit of flexibility with the town hall.”

Ararat Mayor Gwenda Allgood said the project marked a significant milestone.

“We are very lucky to now have this beautiful modern, contemporary arts venue which is the result of a shared vision between the community and all levels of government,” she said.

“Outside council’s parks and gardens team have done a magnificent job in landscaping the precinct.”

Ararat Gallery TAMA director Anthony Camm said the space would help provide more opportunities for the community. 

“It has made sure we are getting the best out of the building, preserved its heritage but also made sure we have room to grow,” he said.