The Allan Labor Government is delivering world-class sporting facilities in Ballarat, with huge upgrades to infrastructure so more grassroots and elite players and fans can enjoy the sport they love, close to home.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today visited Eureka Stadium to announce the Ballarat Sports Package and unveil three renders of the Eureka Stadium Precinct, which is one of three major projects in the region as part of the Labor Government’s Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.

Eureka Stadium is one of 15 sporting facilities across the state set to receive upgrades – and will see 5,000 new permanent seats, a new athletics track and better accessibility across the Eureka Precinct.

The Ballarat Sports Package will boost local jobs, businesses and attract more visitors to the Ballarat region, with works set to begin later this year – with the Expression of Interest for a Head Contractor to deliver the Eureka Precinct upgrades has also been released today.

Across the region, the growing suburb of Miners Rest will also receive a new community sports facility to make sure more people can play the sport they love close to home. The new facility will feature a competition-grade oval, sports pavilion with carparking, amenities and change rooms.

The Ballarat Sports Events Centre will get court upgrades, broadcast and lighting updates, and improved accessibility, so local teams have the facilities they need to succeed on and off the court.

Sports clubs are at the heart of so many regional communities - that’s why we’re supporting more players, teams and communities with the facilities they deserve.

Further updates on the projects will follow in the coming months. For more information about the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos

“Best-in-class sporting venues shouldn’t be confined to just capital cities – these important upgrades bring more Victorians closer to the action, closer to home – whether you’re playing, coaching or just love being part of it all.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence

“We know how important sports participation is for local communities like Ballarat and this program will help deliver modern sporting venues for people to enjoy for years to come.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“We are delivering world class sporting facilities in Ballarat for grassroots sport and future champions. This huge investment will ensure athletes of today and tomorrow can fulfill their potential and follow their dreams. "

Quote attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“Whether it’s kicking a ball around with your mates, running around the track, or cheering your team on in the big game, delivering the facilities that our local clubs need will have an incredibly positive impact on the community.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“These exciting upgrades will ensure our community can watch major sporting and entertainment events in their own backyard, or join their local sporting club as they take to the field at a grassroots level too.”