One Step Closer Towards a New Local Library and Digital Hub
Published on 13 November 2025
Southern Grampians Shire Council is taking a major step towards creating a vibrant new community precinct in the heart of Hamilton, with the appointment of Lyons Architecture to lead the detailed design of the Hamilton Library, Community Hub and Civic Square endorsed at last night’s Council meeting.
Following an extensive procurement process, Council endorsed Newpolis Pty Ltd (trading as Lyons Architecture) as the preferred tenderer to deliver the next stage of design work for the landmark project.
The contract, valued at $1.91 million (ex GST), will progress the designs for the Community Hub and associated public spaces.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the project represents an exceptional opportunity to reshape the heart of Hamilton.
“The Hamilton Library and Community Hub will be a vibrant, inclusive space that will bring people together to learn, connect, and celebrate community life,” Cr Heslin said.
“This project, together with the New Hamilton Gallery and Streetscape revitalisation, will completely transform our CBD precinct, creating a thriving destination that attracts visitors and businesses, and provides a beautiful place that residents can be proud of.
“The appointment of Lyons will include local architecture firm Cooper Scaife who will be vital in providing the local knowledge needed to better understand our community’s expectations. Cooper Scaife will be involved in upcoming community engagement to work with residents and Lyons Architecture to deliver a dynamic space, tailor-made for our region.”
Cooper Scaife, synonymous within Western Victoria, are responsible for delivering the now iconic Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre.
Cooper Scaife Director Bianca Scaife said, “Cooper Scaife Architects are delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to such a transformational project for Hamilton. The redevelopment of this precinct will fundamentally change the fabric of our CBD, with benefits that will extend far beyond the boundaries of the site itself.”
“We are looking forward to partnering with Lyons and bringing our local lens to create a place that is inclusive and welcoming for all members of our community.”
The Hub will include a modern new library, a Digital Hub providing technology, high-speed internet and co-working facilities, as well as multipurpose spaces for meetings, events, training and community activities.
The design requirements will include the exploration of both a two-story building to house local government organisations as a Government Hub, as well as a single-story build without the government services if adequate funding is not realised.
The designs will also include a Civic Square to provide a welcoming outdoor space for events, exhibitions and gatherings.
Costs for the design phase of the multi-million project will be jointly funded through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP) and Council, with $1.93 million allocated for design development and architectural services.
“We are really excited to develop these designs as they will put us in an ideal position to seek and secure project funding. We want to provide amenities for our residents that improve their lives and make this a great place to live.”
“This is a transformative project that will strengthen Hamilton’s position as a regional centre for learning, innovation and culture,” Cr Heslin said.
Lyons Architecture have an impressive history of design across Australia with spaces such as Prahan Square, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Koorie Heritage Trust, Springvale Community Hub, Southbank Hub and more. To find out more information about Lyons and their work, visit their website at www.lyonsarch.com.au
Community will have an opportunity to have their say in upcoming engagement sessions throughout the design process. These will be promoted via the Council website and social media channels.