Powerhouse Parramatta opens in November amid misconduct inquiry

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 21:32 · Archive

Sydney's $915 million Powerhouse Parramatta museum opens in November as a misconduct investigation into its chief executive continues.

Powerhouse Parramatta, the first state cultural institution for western Sydney, opens in November with five exhibitions and a sold-out program for its launch weekend. The $915 million museum, constructed to include a collection storage facility at Castle Hill, is billed as one of the world's great new museums.

The museum has faced criticism from detractors who have called it the 'Milk Crate' and a 'billion-dollar folly built in a flood zone'. Powerhouse Trust chair David Borger told AAP that he hopes visitors will share their experience on social media and that the institution will become regarded as 'the Opera House of the city's west'.

Ahead of its opening, chief executive Lisa Havilah has stood aside as a formal misconduct investigation takes place following a whistleblower complaint and initial probe. The precise allegations have not been disclosed. Spending under Havilah's leadership included generous 'artistic associate' appointments and a documentary on the building of the institution costing at least $1.7 million.

NSW Government Architect Abbie Galvin has taken on the role of interim chief executive, describing herself as a caretaker. She said once the misconduct investigation is complete, Havilah 'might return' or the institution would need to find someone new.

How it is being reported

• Controversy shadows countdown to Powerhouse openingA digital clock at Powerhouse Parramatta is counting down the days until opening. Its first weekend is sold out, but what will the crowds make of it?The West Australian · 24 Oct, 20:57
• Controversy shadows countdown to Powerhouse openingA digital clock at Powerhouse Parramatta is counting down the days until opening. Its first weekend is sold out, but what will the crowds make of it?Perth Now · 24 Oct, 20:57

In this story: Powerhouse Parramatta · Lisa Havilah · David Borger · Abbie Galvin · Sydney · Castle Hill · NSW

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