107 Street in Redfern to Focus on Aboriginal Arts and Culture

The future of the 107 Redfern Street hub was secured. The hub will prioritise Aboriginal creative and cultural use after prolonged deliberations.

107 Street — *Caption: 107 Presents the Museum of Faces with the Lumiphonic Creature Choir (2018)*
*Photo Credit: Museum & Galleries of NSW*

From Artistic Hub to Cultural Heart

The future of 107 Redfern Street, a large community space previously managed by social enterprise 107 Projects, has been a topic of debate. The space, located in the heart of Redfern, has historically served as a hub for artistic and community activities, including exhibitions, rehearsals, and cultural programs.

In September 2024, 107 Projects returned management of the site to the Council, sparking discussions on its future use.

A Historic Decision

Following amendments proposed in February to expand the site’s use as a broader creative space, local official Yvonne Weldon, a Wiradjuri woman, moved a motion to prioritise Aboriginal community use. The motion was approved unanimously on 17 March, committing the Council to focus on local Aboriginal creative and cultural use while maintaining broader community access.

The City of Sydney will conduct an open expression of interest process, inviting local Aboriginal groups to apply for tenancy. Authorities will ensure targeted engagement with the local Aboriginal community and make short-term tenancy arrangements while undertaking necessary maintenance and upgrades.

Redfern Aboriginal space — *Caption: 107’s and City of Sydney’s Cartographica exhibition (2019)*
Photo Credit: Museum & Galleries of NSW

Celebrating Culture

Local official Weldon expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasising the importance of a community-led approach, particularly in Redfern, a suburb deeply rooted in Aboriginal activism and culture. Ms Weldon noted the value of the space as a contemporary setting for preserving and practising Aboriginal culture.

Local groups, including the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group and the Aboriginal Medical Service, have previously expressed long-standing interest in the site. The City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel has consistently advocated for the space to support Aboriginal-led initiatives.

Looking Ahead

The authorities have committed to ongoing community involvement. A three-year review is planned to assess the space’s impact and management. If no Aboriginal management emerges, they will establish a panel to oversee community engagement and usage.

Published 29-Mar-2025