ABC's Adelaide Office Relocation: A New Arts and Media Hub in the City
The ABC has announced a significant move for its Adelaide operations, relocating to a new arts and media hub in the city's central business district (CBD). This move marks a shift for the public broadcaster, which has been based in the Collinswood area for nearly 52 years.
The new location, at the former Adelaide Bus Station on Franklin Street, is known as the Tapangka site. It will be a state-of-the-art facility, housing not only the ABC's offices but also other government arts organizations, including Country Arts SA, State Theatre Company South Australia, and State Opera South Australia.
This relocation is part of a broader plan to create a vibrant arts and media hub, with the ABC partnering with the South Australian government and urban development agency Renewal SA. The project is subject to public works approval, and the ABC aims to move into the new building by 2031.
The decision to relocate was influenced by the ABC's recognition that its current Collinswood building was reaching the end of its suitability. The new Tapangka site was chosen after a detailed feasibility study, ensuring the facility meets the ABC's future needs.
ABC Chair Kim Williams expressed enthusiasm for the move, emphasizing the potential for the new location to become a hub of energy, creativity, and production. He highlighted the benefits of being in the city center and collaborating with leading arts organizations in South Australia.
The cost of the relocation is still being finalized, with internal estimates in place. Mr. Williams noted that the planning and implementation processes will continue in 2026-2027, with the aim of starting construction in 2028.
The new ABC offices will feature modern production studios, content-making facilities, technical operations, and administrative spaces. This relocation is expected to bring numerous advantages to the arts community, staff, audiences, and the creative sector.
Additionally, the ABC's commitment to local content production is evident in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the children's series 'Bananas in Pyjamas,' which will be produced in Adelaide with Windmill Production Company. This project is part of a $50 million federal government funding allocation for local content, particularly kids' programming.
Furthermore, the ABC comedy series 'Austin' has begun production for its third season in South Australia, starring Michael Theo. The series is a six-part production, filming in both Australia and the United Kingdom.
