The Neilson Foundation has donated $5 million to the Powerhouse Parramatta, as announced today by NSW Premiere Chris Minns.

The funds will go towards the establishment of the Neilson Foundation Gallery at the Western Sydney venue, as well as fund the creation of The Dark, a children’s exhibition set to premiere at the venue in 2026.

(L–R) Kerr Neilson, Beau Neilson, Paris Neilson, Steve Kamper, Chris Minns and John Graham at the announcement of the Neilson Foundation’s $5m donation. Photo © Zan Wimberley

The Dark is spearheaded by Kip Williams, the now-Tony-nominated former Sydney Theatre Company Artistic Director and designer Elizabeth Gadsby, and will be presented over three years. The exhibition will “redefine immersive experiences for young people” using the current Powerhouse Collection.

“We are incredibly excited to create The Dark for Powerhouse Parramatta. This unique, immersive experience invites intergenerational audiences into a space of storytelling, knowledge discovery and imagination — grounded in an exploration of the Powerhouse Collection,” said Williams and Gadsby.

Minns’ announcement was followed by the topping out of Powerhouse Parramatta, which is set to open its doors next year. It will be the biggest museum in NSW...