Powerhouse Parramatta CEO suspended amid ICAC referral

The Powerhouse Parramatta museum is set to open this Saturday following a $915 million investment by the NSW government. However, the institution faces significant leadership and financial scrutiny. Chief Executive Lisa Havilah was suspended on August 27 pending a departmental investigation into governance and procurement practices.

The Powerhouse Trust has referred conflict-of-interest matters to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). This referral follows concerns regarding a $2 million contract awarded in February to Ki Community, a marketing agency co-founded by former trustee Mark Hassell. The contract was awarded through a selective tender process where Ki Community was the sole applicant.

Additionally, the museum's operating budget is under review by Treasury. While the museum states exhibition costs are within the $62 million allocation for fitout and transition, reports suggest the cost of five upcoming exhibitions may exceed $70 million, including artist commissions and licensing fees.