After years of anticipation, the Powerhouse Parramatta museum in Western Sydney will finally open its doors on November 7. But the celebration is clouded by an internal investigation into senior executives' conduct, with CEO Lisa Havilah stepping aside while procurement and spending practices are scrutinized.

A Cultural Landmark with a Confirmed Date

The Powerhouse Parramatta, one of New South Wales' most ambitious cultural projects, will open to the public on November 7, as confirmed by the Minister for the Arts, John Graham. With a price tag of $915 million, the museum is set to become an icon for Western Sydney, a region experiencing rapid demographic and cultural growth.

However, the road to opening has not been without controversy. An internal investigation into alleged misconduct by senior executives, involving the government and procurement areas, has put the museum in the media spotlight.

The Investigation and Key Figures

The CEO, Lisa Havilah, stepped aside from her role last Thursday while the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the Chief Operating Officer, Mark Wilsdon, is on leave and providing information to the process. The probe, which began as a whistleblower complaint in March 2025, was formalized in December and has been reported to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

The board, including David Borger, is not subject to the allegations, and the NSW Treasury's budget review is a separate process.

Interim Leadership and Spending Under Scrutiny

Since Tuesday, the museum has an interim team: Abbie Galvin, NSW Government Architect, has taken over as interim CEO, and Louise Herron, former CEO of the Sydney Opera House, has joined as a strategic advisor.

Expenditures made under Havilah's management are part of the inquiries. These include:

  • A documentary costing over $1.7 million.
  • Marketing expenses of $5 million.
  • Interior design for accommodation at $333,500.

Procurement was conducted through contracts below $6 million, the CEO's approval limit, which avoided additional oversight.

What This Means for the Museum

Despite the controversies, the opening of Powerhouse Parramatta is a milestone for the local community. The museum will house collections of science, technology, and design, and is expected to attract thousands of visitors. Transparency in management will be key to restoring public trust.

The NSW government has assured that the investigation will be conducted rigorously and that the museum will open with the excellence the community deserves.