Plans for the construction of Australia’s first “circularity centre” have been released with Bega in New South Wales set to become the home of circular innovation.
Designed by Cox Architecture, the facility will operate as a discovery and educational centre, a tourism destination and the headquarters for circular economy research and advancement. Plans state the hub will “showcase local products, programs, technology use and community history, connecting the past to the future.”
The centre is set to open in early 2026.
Image: Cox Architecture
The project is an initiative of the Regional Circularity Cooperative, a membership organization with support from a range of businesses including Bega Cheese, the University of Wollongong, Bega Valley Shire Council, as well as industry bodies, such as Meat and Livestock Australia, Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, and Landcare and Aboriginal Land Councils. The group aims to make the Bega Valley “the most circular region in Australia by 2030.”
“The Bega Valley is the perfect location to prove the concept of the circular economy because it is a natural water catchment and has relevant industries thriving in the district – tourism, agriculture, aquaculture and Australian food producer, Bega Cheese – and a strong resilient community who are open to change,” the University of Wollongong said in a statement.
Comprising a visitors’ centre, a local providore, agriculture technology and business innovation hub, the Centre of Circularity aspires to be the “home of circular economy” education in Australia.
The centre will educate visitors on circular economies, sustainability, technology, and capabilities of the region as the home of circularity.
Image: Cox Architecture
The facility will embody the theme of circularity through the use of recycled, repurposed and locally sourced materials, as well as through targeting sustainability and low energy ratings. It will also incorporate First Nations culture and history into the design.
The objectives of the establishment include educating visitors on circular economies, technology, sustainability, agriculture, land management, water use, food production and business innovation; demonstrating the capabilities and potential of Bega Valley as an epicentre of circularity; establishing the region as a model for other regions and organizations to follow suit; and attract domestic and international tourism to the area.
The NSW government has allocated $14 million to the $19 million National Circularity Centre (NCC), while the Bega Group has committed to contributing the remaining $5 million, as well as provide land for the construction of the site.
The centre is set to open in early 2026.
