The Andrews Labor Government is delivering a new community sporting venue at Miners Rest, that will support local sports clubs to train and compete ahead of the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The brand-new venue will be just ten minutes from Eureka Stadium and include a competition-grade oval and sports pavilion with carparking, amenities and changerooms all designed to accommodate local sporting activities.

It will minimise disruptions to training and match schedules for local sports teams and remain as an additional sports facility for the Ballarat community post-Games.

Local sporting clubs will also benefit from a suite of upgrades to Eureka Stadium, including improved accessibility features, and an additional 5,000 permanent seats which will mean a bigger and better experience for athletes and spectators.

An Expression of Interest (EoI) has been released today for a head contractor to complete the upgrade to Ballarat’s Eureka Stadium.

The Ballarat Showgrounds site to the south will also become the home of a new athletics warm-up facility for Victoria 2026, becoming a permanent facility for the community and sporting groups to enjoy after the Games.

Interested parties can register via the Buying for Victoria website; buyingfor.vic.gov.au, from which a shortlist of civil contractors will be invited to participate in a Request for Proposal process.

It is estimated the Games will contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy, creating more than 7,500 jobs before, during and after the Games.

Quote attributable to Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan

“We’re getting on with delivering Victoria 2026, investing in local sporting infrastructure across regional Victoria and creating thousands of jobs.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy Harriet Shing

“We’re investing in world-class sporting infrastructure that will drive economic growth and pride of place, leaving an enduring legacy of accessible, inclusive and fit-for-purpose housing and community infrastructure in Ballarat.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“This is a game changer for Miners Rest and a legacy of the Commonwealth Games for generations to come.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“We’re investing in Ballarat’s Eureka Stadium and ensuring this world-class facility provides a world-class experience, not just for Victoria 2026 but for decades to come.”