Demolition begins at old WA Museum

Demolition of non-heritage parts of the old WA Museum has begun, with the glass windows of the lobby being spectacularly smashed.

Premier Mark McGowan also turned the first sod of soil for the new museum on Monday and said the project was expected to create 3300 jobs during construction.

The new museum will have exhibition galleries, multipurpose spaces for community use, lifelong learning studios, and retail and cafe spots.

It is expected to attract about 800,000 visitors in its first year and provide a boost for tourism.

"The development of a world-class destination that provides excellent visitor experiences and learning opportunities for children and adults will be a great resource for all West Australians, particularly families," Mr McGowan said.

Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman said the museum would showcase the state's history, biodiversity, people and places.

"It will be a museum for all West Australians and will feature Aboriginal culture, as well as the stories of the many people of our multicultural state," he said.

Construction of the new museum will begin mid-year and up to 80 per cent of materials removed from the old museum will be recycled or reused.

The project is expected to be completed by 2020.