The foundations of Mildura Arts Centre were first laid in 1950 when Rio Vista, previously the showcase family home of WB and Heather Chaffey, was purchased by the Council for £18,000. Rio Vista was acquired for use as an art gallery to display the significant collection of works bequeathed to the community by Senator R D Elliott in 1944. Further works were also bequeathed by his late wife, Mrs Hilda Elliott in 1970.

The art gallery, contained within a refitted and extended Rio Vista, was officially opened on 25 May 1956 by Governor of Victoria General Sir Dallas Brooks.

From this foundation Mildura Arts Centre has evolved into the cultural hub of the local community. The first major development occurred in 1966 with the construction of a dedicated art gallery and theatre, opened by the then Victorian Premier, Sir Henry Bolte on 22 November 1966. 2012 brought the fruition of Stage 1 of the Mildura Arts and Cultural Precinct redevelopment with the creation of new performing arts venue.

The Mildura Sculpture Triennials, a series of important contemporary art events, took place between 1961 and 1988 and gave Mildura an undeniable place on the national arts scene. The legacy of the Triennials remains today with public art scattered in and around Mildura on the lawns and along Deakin Avenue.