Jewish Arts Quarter Economic Assessment

The Challenge

The Jewish Arts Quarter (JAQ) is a proposed cultural precinct in Elsternwick, Victoria, consolidating the Jewish Museum of Australia, Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre, and the National Library into a single, modern facility. The challenge was to assess whether redeveloping the site at 7 Selwyn Street would deliver sufficient economic, cultural, and community value to justify public and philanthropic investment.

The Action

Polis Partners, in collaboration with RP Infrastructure, undertook an economic and financial evaluation to inform funding applications and strategic decision-making. The assessment considered user and producer benefits, urban renewal impacts, transport and environmental efficiencies, and broader social and cultural value.

The Results

The evaluation was submitted as part of a broader business case to the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments and has successfully secured funding. While quantifiable benefits did not exceed costs, the analysis demonstrated compelling cultural, social, and urban renewal outcomes that justified investment beyond traditional metrics.