Q: Is COPACC closing?
A: No. COPACC is not closing. The proposal relates only to how the centre is managed, not whether it operates. Cinema screenings, performances, events and community use will continue during this process.
Q: Will the cinema close or be replaced?
A: No. The proposal ensures the continued operation of cinema services as part of an integrated programming model. The building remains in Council ownership and the cinema remains part of the COPACC offering.
Q: Is Council selling COPACC?
A: No. COPACC remains a Council‑owned community asset. Council is considering a lease arrangement for management and programming, not the sale or transfer of ownership.
Q: What parts of COPACC does the proposed lease cover?
A: The proposed lease relates only to the operational areas of COPACC, including the auditorium, studios, meeting rooms, foyer, function spaces, and the cinema. These are the spaces used for performances, events, community hire and programming.
The lease does not include the Colac and District Historical Society areas, the History Centre, or the Makers Space facilities. These areas are not part of the proposal and will remain under Council management and existing arrangements.
Q: Why is Council considering a lease?
A: Council is considering a lease to provide a long‑term operating model that brings together cinema, performing arts, events and community use under a single provider. This approach is intended to strengthen activation of COPACC, support ongoing community access, and ensure the centre is sustainable into the future.
Q: What is the community’s role in this?
A: A four‑week engagement period will invite the community to provide feedback on the proposed lease terms.
Anyone can make a submission, and all submissions will be considered before Council makes a final decision. A Hearing of Submissions will be held for people who wish to speak to their submission.
Q: What happens after the engagement period?
A: All feedback will be collated and reported to Councillors. A further report will go to the April Council Meeting, where Council will consider the community’s views and determine whether to enter into the proposed lease.
Q: What does this mean for community groups and local hirers?
A: Community access remains a core requirement of the proposed lease terms. The intention is to maintain and improve access for local groups, schools, hirers and community organisations. Final access arrangements will be set through the lease and reported back to Council after engagement.
Q: What about pricing for community hire or events?
A: Pricing frameworks remain subject to lease terms and Council oversight. No changes to pricing will occur as part of the engagement process. Any future pricing structure must align with Council’s requirements for community access and affordability.
Q: Will programming change under a lease?
A: The intent is to increase activation, including a mix of cinema, professional performances and community‑focused programming. A more integrated management model is expected to support expanded offerings while maintaining community access.
Q: How can I have my say?
A: You can provide feedback through the Have Your Say page during the four‑week engagement period. You may also request to speak at the Hearing of Submissions if you wish. Council will consider all views presented through submissions before making a final decision. Engagement feedback is a key factor in Council’s deliberations.
Q: Will the community still be able to book spaces like the Civic Hall, auditorium and meeting rooms?
A: Yes. Community access is a core requirement in the proposed lease terms. All key spaces must remain available for community, school and local group use.
Q: What happens to existing COPACC bookings?
A: All existing bookings will be honoured. There will be no impact on any confirmed events, performances, functions, community hire or school bookings. COPACC will continue to operate as normal during the consultation period and beyond.
Q: Can I still make a new booking at COPACC?
A: Yes. COPACC is continuing to accept bookings, including for dates up to August 2026 (at this stage). The proposed lease relates to the management model only and does not affect COPACC’s availability for community use, events or venue hire. Bookings will continue to be supported throughout the engagement period and any future transition process.