With Ballarat officially announced as one of four regional hubs for Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Andrews Labor Government is getting on with plans to deliver this global sporting event.

Mars Stadium will host the athletics and para athletics competitions as part of Victoria 2026.

In addition, Ballarat is set to host boxing and T20 cricket, with the venues for each sport to be determined as part of the Games’ final sport programme.

The recent completion of Eureka Stadium’s stage two $6.6 million redevelopment has delivered newly installed terracing in the southern section of the ground and better accessible seating in the western and eastern stands for patrons.

The upgrade also included new entrances, new ticket boxes and covered areas, providing a better fan experience for Ballarat locals and visitors alike.

A process to assess what further infrastructure upgrades will be required to host these events as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games has commenced.

Victoria 2026 will deliver significant economic and social benefits to the Ballarat region, including housing and world-class sports facilities.

With more than 1,750 athletes and officials set to be housed in Ballarat’s athlete village, the region will be left with a lasting legacy, with a proportion of the village to be converted into affordable and social housing.

Ballarat is also expected to benefit greatly from the influx of visitors and sporting fans travelling to watch the Games be played at Eureka Stadium and other venues across the region.

It is estimated the 2026 Commonwealth Games will contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy, creating more than 600 full-time equivalent jobs before the Games, 3,900 jobs during the Games and a further 3,000 jobs beyond the Closing Ceremony.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ballarat Juliana Addison

“We can’t wait for athletes and officials from around the world to call Ballarat home for Victoria 2026. The infrastructure developed in time for the Games will provide long term benefits to our local communities.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games will be a terrific opportunity to showcase all the region has to offer on the world stage.”