Cockatoo Island – Draft Concept Vision

From early May to June 2021, we sought feedback on the Cockatoo Island Draft Concept Vision. Opportunities to provide feedback and learn more about the Draft Concept Vision included an online survey, a walkshop, a series of virtual workshops, a webinar and pop-up community feedback sessions. Additionally, the First Nations Community were invited to take a survey, participate in a one-on-one interview and attend a yarning session.

Exhibited material

• Cockatoo Island Draft Concept Vision (pdf)
• Webinar: A discussion on the Draft Concept Vision (video)
• Cockatoo Island Draft Concept Vision Webinar – Questions and answers (pdf)

Post consultation documents (NEW)

• Consultation Overview (pdf)
• Consultation Outcomes Report (pdf)
• First Nations Consultation Outcomes Report (pdf)

At the heart of the feedback is the desire to respect and honour history and our heritage – both of First Nations Peoples, and Australia’s history post colonisation. We heard that our community want to see every facet of the island’s history respected and celebrated. The chance to learn of this history through experience, to know that the depth and breadth of this incredible Island’s story will be shared in a way that is living, vibrant, honouring and truthful. We heard the desire isn’t for a museum, but a living, tangible experience.

We heard people want to see:

• The island enhanced in a way that authentically allows people to learn about First Nations culture and a place that is welcoming to First Nations Peoples, through economic opportunities, use of language, ceremonial spaces and cultural programs.
• The native environment brought back in a way that respects the industrialised, rawness of the island.
• Revival of maritime industry on the island and restoration of Fitzroy Dock for operational use.
• Experiences for visitors of all ages and backgrounds that allow people to be immersed in the Island’s rich history.
• Space to explore nature, the industrial network of buildings and the remnant convict structures and landmarks.
• Visitors be they local or international, attracted to the island and the experiences and events it has to offer.
• Respect as one of 11 significant Australian convict sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The history of Cockatoo Island is continually being written. It is an ongoing story without an ending. The Harbour Trust wants to ensure all who visit for work, or for recreation feel welcome – be it to earn their livelihoods, learn and experience history and nature, or simply play, touching land, water and sky. After all, the island always has been a gathering place for diverse groups of people. New investment that brings a new level of vibrancy and liveliness to the island will be an important part in making that happen.

The Harbour Trust's unfolding vision for Cockatoo Island represents a journey spanning into the future. We will continue to be guided by you as we mould and shape our final plans, updating and involving you as we go. ​We welcome you to take part in this conversation at the next stage as we develop the master plan for Cockatoo Island.

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