Ballarat Animal Shelter awards Architect

A pivotal next step in developing a state-of-the-art Regional Animal Facility has been reached to close out 2023.

Architecture Matters was awarded the design contract at a regular City of Ballarat Contracts Committee meeting on Wednesday 20 December 2023.  

Work will commence in the new year to finalise the designs for the new facility in Mitchell Park.  

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said the existing animal shelter is an old re-purposed abattoir building and not fit for purpose.  

“Appointing Architecture Matters as the architect to design the new facility is a key milestone in this project and we look forward to seeing the facility’s vision take shape,” he said.  

“It will be exciting to share the designs with the community in the near future.”  

A new Regional Animal Facility will enhance the quality of life and care delivered to thousands of animals from around the region that pass through the shelter each year.

It will improve the living situation for the animals, with integrated outdoor and indoor facilities, and more space for animals to rest and play.  

The new facility will also improve infection control, allow for safer quarantine measures and improved boarding facilities, not only for surrendered animals, but also crisis situations such as family violence and emergencies.  

The new facility would not be possible without the contribution of $11.5 million from the Victorian Government and $3 million from the City of Ballarat.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said the welfare of Victoria’s animals is a priority for the State Government.  

“This much needed facility will ensure more animals will be able to get the care they need and that our wonderful vets and volunteers have new state of the art facilities to work in,” she said.

The designs are expected to be finalised in mid-2024, with tenders calling for construction anticipated to be released following, in late 2024.  

The Ballarat Animal Shelter (at 5A Gillingham Place Alfredton) remains open during the Christmas and New Year break, only closed on public holidays. For after-hours emergency support please call 5320 5500.