Xin Jin Shan Chinese Library Development, Ballarat

Planning approval for the adaptive reuse of a significant heritage building in central Ballarat to establish the Xin Jin Shan Chinese Library, including a change of use and separate Heritage Victoria approval for culturally appropriate signage.

Adaptive Reuse of a Heritage Landmark

This project involved the proposed change of use of a prominent heritage building on Sturt Street to establish the Xin Jin Shan Chinese Library. The proposal retained the existing building fabric in full, repurposing the internal layout to support a major cultural, educational, and research facility within Ballarat’s

Complex Planning and Heritage Approvals

Planning approval was sought through the City of Ballarat for use of the site as a Place of Assembly (library), along with a waiver of car parking requirements. In parallel, a separate permit application was prepared and lodged with Heritage Victoria for business identification signage due to the building’s inclusion on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Balancing Culture, Policy and Context

The project required a detailed assessment of planning policy, heritage significance, operational impacts, and adaptive reuse principles. The approved outcome supports one of the largest Chinese-language libraries in the Southern Hemisphere while conserving the architectural and cultural significance of a landmark heritage building in Ballarat’s historic core.