Lake Haven Cinema Complex Closure - Council Statement

Council is aware of the announcement made by Lake Haven Cinema Complex on social media last night that it would be ceasing to operate.  The formal details of the closure are yet to be provided to Council.

The closure of the Lake Haven Cinema Complex follows on from the operator not being able to meet its outstanding rental obligations to Council of more than $300,000. Council has, for nearly three years, negotiated unsuccessfully with the operator and in the meantime the operator commenced legal proceedings against Council. The outcomes of these proceedings were found in Council’s favour, and Council is still owed $450,000 in Court Costs.

Also it is important to note that since Covid in 2020, Council has provided a rental reduction exceeding $1 million dollars.

In November 2025 the operator was advised by Council that unless outstanding rental payments were received by Council by 1 December 2025, Council would review its options as to taking back the management of the complex.

The decision to close the complex last night was a decision made by the operator of the Cinema Complex – not Council.

Council will start the process immediately to find a new operator for the Lake Haven Cinema complex and is confident the operations will be back up and running in a matter of months.

ENDS