Phase 1 of the project included an in depth needs analysis comparing current industry trends against offerings from the existing TRAG facility. The comparison identified both challenges and solutions, including:

• A fit for purpose building designed to optimise usage and increase visitor numbers
• Strengthening opportunities to use TRAG as a core asset for attracting new residents and creative sector businesses
• Exploration of operating models including opportunities for seed funding

Phase 2 of the project includes a detailed options analysis and feasibility report on three shortlisted sites. Throughout the community consultation, a number of sites were proposed within the Toowoomba Region and have since been assessed against the following pillars:

Pillar 1 - Placemaking and Destination Identity (Place)

A well-designed art museum improves public space, encourages walkability, and contributes to the city’s visual identity and regional reputation.

Pillar 2 - Community Engagement and Cultural Enrichment (People)

An art museum enhances the cultural life of a regional city by showcasing local creativity and storytelling, supporting Indigenous and multicultural voices, and offering a permanent space to preserve and exhibit significant collections that reflect the region’s history and character.

An inclusive museum fosters social cohesion by offering free or low-cost programs, supporting mental health and wellbeing through creative expression, and providing a venue for community storytelling and civic pride.

Pillar 3 - Economic Impact and Tourism (Prosperity)

Art museums contribute to the local economy by driving cultural tourism, increasing overnight stays and spending, attracting visitors year-round, and acting as a drawcard for larger exhibitions, festivals, and events.

An art museum supports the growth of the creative economy by employing curators, educators, and event staff, creating demand for local artists, and supporting adjacent sectors such as marketing and tourism.

Pillar 4 - Cultural Legacy and Institutional Performance (Performance)

Council owns a significant and growing art collection that currently lacks appropriate storage space, and curatorial facilities. There are three collections of unique cultural heritage that number more than 7,000 items: Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery – Toowoomba City Collection, Lionel Lindsay Gallery and Library Collection, and Fred and Lucy Gould Collection.

Phase 3 will see the completion and presentation of a business case to Council.

Community Consultation (drop down)

Two rounds of community consultation have been held (one as part of Phase 1 and one as part of Phase 2) inviting residents and key stakeholders within the arts and cultural industry to share their ideas and suggestions on what could be considered for a Toowoomba Art Museum.

Feedback opportunities were provided through online surveys via Council’s Your Say platform, a digital ideas board (hosted on SMA’s website), one-on-one meetings and community workshops.

The community were encouraged to share what would inspire them to visit a museum including the types of exhibitions and collections, the buildings physical appearance and functionality, in line with the following five core themes:

1. Essence of the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery
2. Art Museum and surrounds
3. Gallery Experiences – Exhibitions and Programs
4. Art Collections
5. Linking to our Community