14 June 2016

Pledge $10 million towards the construction of a new SAM if the Coalition is retuned to government in next month’s federal election.

Minister for Regional Development and Nationals Deputy Leader Senator Fiona Nash visited Shepparton this morning to pledge $10 million towards the construction of a new SAM if the Coalition is retuned to government in next month’s federal election.

Minister Nash travelled to Shepparton to personally make the election pledge. Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Dinny Adem thanked the Senator for her commitment and said “the investment would have a significant positive impact on the economy of our region.”

“We have already secured $10 million from the State Government and Council has committed $10 million as well for the project. The SAM Foundation has also committed the $4.5 million needed to build the project, and is working very hard to secure philanthropic donations,” said Cr Adem.

A new SAM will lead to more than $58 million dollars in economic activity in and around Shepparton during the two year build resulting in 181 new jobs. Once operational, it will continue to stimulate the local economy with jobs, tourism and events bringing ongoing business to the region.

Cr Adem said “The new SAM is a game changer for Greater Shepparton. It will position our region as a strong tourism destination. It will attract more visitors, entice more people to live here and entice investors to the area, as well as diversifying our economy.”

“Greater Shepparton City Council welcomes the $10 million pledge from the Coalition Government and we look forward to seeing Minister Nash here again with good news in the not too distant future”, said Cr Adem.

Minister Nash said the project will generate local jobs, and is another example of the Coalition Governments clear focus on stimulating growth in regional Victoria.

“As Minister for Regional Development, I aim to help build the types of communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to. Art and cultural facilities are a big part of that. The Shepparton Art Museum will be a major drawcard for the community and the Coalition is proud to deliver it.”

Cr Adem recognised the hard work to date from Council staff and key members of the community including the SAM Foundation. “There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to secure this major project for Shepparton including complex funding applications and lobbying of government.”

SAM Director Dr Rebecca Coates said “This is hugely exciting news, and means the dream of a new SAM museum is one big step closer.

“It’s been a real team effort to get this far and I look forward to continuing to work with key partners and stakeholders, including the Federal Government, the State Government, the SAM Foundation, and of course Greater Shepparton’s own support for and commitment to the project,” said Dr Coates.

“With such a beautiful location, great art, food, and exciting architecture, I know it will become the place that people say ‘let’s meet at SAM’.” 

Greater Shepparton City Council Director Community Kaye Thomson said it was good news to have commitment from the Coalition. “The announcement today from Minister Nash is very encouraging and provides recognition that a new SAM is an important project for our region now and into the future.”