Five-year-old boy dies in Perth hospital after being crushed by parking meter at Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre

A young boy crushed by a parking meter that fell on him at a museum 170km south of Perth has died.

The five-year-old was critically injured by the disused machine in the courtyard of the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre about 10.30am on Wednesday.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Boy crushed by parking meter in Bunbury dies in hospital.

He was flown to Perth Children’s Hospital where he died on Friday, police confirmed to 7NEWS.com.au.

“Our entire organisation is heartbroken and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the young child involved in a tragic incident at a City facility last week,” City of Bunbury chief executive Alan Ferris said.

“Our thoughts are with the child’s family and everyone impacted.

“We have reached out to the family and offered support. There are no words that will help what we know will have an immense impact on our entire community.

“We also send thoughts to our own staff who witnessed the incident and who did everything they could in providing immediate assistance.”

The incident happened during an environmental education school holiday program run by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and 7NEWS understands it was caught on security cameras.

Paramedics were called and took the boy in a critical condition to Bunbury Hospital before he was flown to Perth.

WorkSafe sent an investigator to the museum and the inquiry remains ongoing.

“The City will continue to work closely with all relevant authorities in any investigations relating to this tragic incident,” Ferris said.

An online fundraiser launched to support the “local Bunbury family” said the “entire South West community” had been shaken.

“This tragedy has deeply impacted those who know and love this family, as well as the hospital staff, colleagues, friends, and community members who have been involved,” campaign organisers said.

“No family should have to face such heartbreak while also worrying about financial burdens.

“The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love and support during this challenging time. They are deeply moved and overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown by so many.”

State member for Bunbury Don Punch last week described the incident as a “terrible tragedy”.

“I know that it’s being felt by the family, our whole community and particularly the staff who were there on site,” he said.

“They acted very quickly and the boy did get medical help very quickly but it’s a tragic, tragic situation.”

The museum will remain closed until January 28 and a report is being prepared for the coroner.