SAT rebuild marks Cathedral Square milestone

• $25 million SAT fit-out designed to improve client experience
• New video-conferencing facilities to benefit regional residents

The first new project in Perth's exciting Cathedral Square (formerly Cathedral and Treasury Precinct) is set to open, after the remarkable redevelopment of the former Public Trustee Building, to accommodate the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT).

Attorney General Michael Mischin said that each year, hundreds of West Australians accessed the services of the independent tribunal, which made and reviewed a wide range of administrative decisions in the areas of guardianship and administration, human rights, vocational regulation, town planning, resource development and commercial and civil disputes.

"The move allows SAT to establish itself in a building which allows for future expansion to meet demand and gives the tribunal secure long-term accommodation for at least the next 25 years," Mr Mischin said.

"The State's $25 million SAT fit-out includes 22 hearing rooms, four special mediation rooms, a variety of public meeting rooms and features the latest audio-visual technology, including video-conferencing.  This will allow matters from regional areas to be heard without the people involved having to travel long distances to Perth.

"It will contribute to the renewal and give vibrancy to this previously neglected precinct of central Perth."

Finance Minister Bill Marmion said the reconstruction, leasing and occupation of the building marked a big milestone in the redevelopment of Cathedral Square.

"The repurposing of SAT's new home has been a huge undertaking, with the old building literally sawn in two," Mr Marmion said.

"The eastern section was retained but stripped back to its frame and extended, including an impressive new facade with innovative illumination in keeping with Perth's reputation as the 'city of lights'.

"The building is designed to be open, accessible and easy to navigate.  Sustainable materials and finishes, including wall linings and joinery fabricated from Australian blackbutt, have been used to enhance the interior experience for clients and SAT staff."

Fact File

• The $50 million redevelopment of the former Public Trustee Building was undertaken by owners, the Perth Diocesan Trustees then handed over to the Department of Finance for fit-out
• Cathedral Square  partners are the State Government, City of Perth, Anglican Diocese of Perth, Public Trustee, Mirvac Group and FJM Property
• The precinct's major 33-storey tower will  house the Supreme Court's civil functions and the Department of the Attorney-General and the Department of Treasury
• More than 1,500 people are employed in constructing Cathedral Square projects

Attorney General's office - 6552 5600

Finance Minister's office - 6552 6800