Westfield Fountain Gate Shopping Centre

Opened in 1980, Westfield Fountain Gate wasn’t always the titan it is today. Initially, it housed just Kmart, Coles New World, 48 smaller shops, and the Hotel Fountain Gate. Imagine the quaint atmosphere, a far cry from the bustling hub we know now. Westfield Fountain Gate has grown dramatically over the years. It’s currently the second largest shopping centre in Australia by floor area and number of anchor tenants. It holds a unique title: the largest shopping centre in Australia featuring all three discount department stores: Big W, Target, and Kmart. In 1984, Safeway joined the scene. Then, a significant expansion in 1988 added a second floor, introducing Target (originally Forges), a relocated Coles New World, a food court, and even more shops. A separate homemaker centre opened nearby shortly after. The Westfield Group’s acquisition in 1995 truly transformed Westfield Fountain Gate. The redevelopment, completed in 2001, brought an eastern wing with a new food court, Village Cinemas, Big W, a relocated Woolworths (formerly Safeway), Aldi, and more specialty shops. Even the old Safeway space found new life with stores like The Reject Shop and a post office. Between 2011 and 2012, another major expansion added a two-level Myer, a relocated Coles, and expanded space for Target. Originally, David Jones was planned for this expansion, but Myer ultimately filled the spot. This phase also added more specialty stores and increased parking. Did you know Westfield Fountain Gate is home to Victoria’s first Krispy Kreme? Beyond retail, a new building now houses the City of Casey’s entertainment precinct and the Narre Warren Library. Westfield Fountain Gate has even graced the screen. It’s the mall frequented by the characters in the television series “Kath & Kim” and was a filming location in the movie “Bad Eggs”.