Station place theatre. Image: Wyndham City
In short:
Wyndham City plans to restore the historic Palais Theatre Werribee as a boutique cinema, bringing heritage and entertainment back to Station Place. The project supports the city’s broader push to revitalise Werribee City Centre.
A New Future For The Palais Theatre Werribee
Wyndham City is preparing for the next major phase in the transformation of Werribee City Centre, with plans to reimagine the historic former Palais Theatre site on Station Place.
Originally opened in 1928 as the Picture Palais theatre and cinema, the site has undergone several changes over the decades. With current tenants Cash Converters relocating to a new Watton Street address later this year, the site will soon be vacant — paving the way for its potential revival.
Council is now exploring the feasibility of restoring the Palais to its former glory as a boutique cinema, including the reinstatement of its historic façade.
Wyndham City Mayor Cr Mia Shaw said the opportunity aligns with the long-term vision outlined in the Werribee City Centre Structure Plan.
“In early 2024, Wyndham City made a strategic decision to purchase the former Palais Theatre site in Station Place to protect this important piece of Werribee’s history and guide the type of development that we will see there in the future,” Cr Shaw said.
“With the site due to become vacant by the end of the year, we now intend to explore the feasibility of returning the Palais to its former glory as a cinema, including restoration of its historic façade.”
“Our community has been clear – they want a city centre that’s vibrant, safe and offers more to see and do, and this site represents a significant opportunity to boost activity and vibrancy in the City Centre.”
The initiative forms part of Wyndham City’s Rediscover Werribee City Centre program, designed to celebrate Werribee’s heritage and prepare it for the future through new upgrades, events, and precinct activation.
This builds on other major city centre projects, including the $10 million Wyndham Cultural Centre redevelopment, the $13 million Wyndham Park upgrade, and the reactivation of the Bridge Hotel. It also follows the delivery of the Hunter Werribee building — home to Holiday Inn, shops, offices, and public parking.
In addition, Council recently awarded the construction contract for the $2 million Duncans Road streetscape upgrade, which will feature new bluestone footpaths, landscaped areas, raised pedestrian crossings, and custom seating platforms, with works set to begin in early 2026.
