Govt Printing Office in Perth to have permanent heritage listing

8/7/96

The historic Government Printing Office in Murray Street, Perth is to have its heritage values protected by the State Government.

Heritage Minister Richard Lewis said the Government Printing Office had been permanently placed on the State Register of Heritage Places.

Mr Lewis said the listing followed a recommendation from the Heritage Council of Western Australia.

The building formed an important part of the western end of the heritage precinct in Murray Street.

"Although the building is no longer used as a printing office, it forms part of the heritage precinct which includes a number of historic Government-owned or community based buildings," the Minister said.

"These include Royal Perth Hospital, the Fire Station, Young Australia League, the Salvation Army Citadel and St Mary's Cathedral."

Mr Lewis said the Government Printer was established in 1870 in two-storey premises in Pier Street.

Work carried out there included the printing of Parliamentary papers, the Government Gazette and other public service papers.

There was a major increase in the need for effective Government services as a result of the gold boom of the 1890s, combined with the development of representative Government in WA.

"Conditions in the office were appalling, with the Daily News describing the overcrowded staff as toiling away in an office which was 'sweltering in summer and draughty in winter' and 'jumbled together like a rabbit warren'," Mr Lewis said.

In 1894 a decision was made to construct a new building, taking up the entire setback on Murray Street. Designed by Colonial Architect George Temple Poole, the ground floor was used for offices, the second floor for compositors and the third floor for stitching, binding and other uses.

Further additions were made in 1907 because of the rapid growth of Government services.

A substantial four-storey extension on the eastern side of the Murray Street building was designed by Hillson Beasley, the renowned chief architect of the Public Works Department.

Fifteen years later the Government Printing Office was extended again, with a fourth-storey added to the original 1894 building.

"The building is a reminder of the growth and development of Government services in the period and of the State in general," Mr Lewis said.

"It also contributes to the fabric of Perth and is a fine example of a late 1890s Government building constructed to house an expanding Government department.

"The finished design reflects the progressive development of WA from a colony to a State of some distinction and wealth."

Mr Lewis said the classic features of turrets, domes and the strongly expressed Murray Street entrance were a demonstration of the stability and permanency of WA Government and its services.

"The building makes a strong visual contribution to that portion of the Murray Street heritage precinct," he said.

"It is in good condition and has a high degree of integrity and authenticity."

Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 222 9595 or 221 1377