Stopgap leadership at Powerhouse as probe under way

Allegations of misconduct are under investigation regarding senior executives at the upcoming Powerhouse Parramatta museum, according to the NSW government. The $915 million museum, set to open in November, is facing scrutiny over governance and procurement issues. Powerhouse chief executive Lisa Havilah has stepped aside pending the probe, as have several other executives.

Mark Wilsdon, the museum's chief operating officer, is on leave and providing information to the investigation. Havilah agreed to step down after learning of further allegations. NSW government architect Abbie Galvin and former Opera House chief executive Louise Herron have been appointed as interim and strategic leaders, respectively.

The NSW Treasury is separately reviewing the museum's budget, with spending under Havilah's leadership totaling over $1.7 million, $5 million on marketing, and $333,500 on on-site accommodation. The procurement deals in question were under $6 million, the limit for spending without ministerial approval. The Powerhouse board members, including chair David Borger, are not subject to the allegations, and the board's audit committee is assisting with the investigation. The minister remains confident the museum will open on schedule on November 7.