Ballarat will remain the regional home of the Western Bulldogs until 2024, thanks to a new three-year partnership between the Andrews Labor Government and the football club.

The new deal will bring six AFL matches to Mars Stadium over the next three years, with the Western Bulldogs to play two matches per year until 2024.

The blockbuster matches are expected to attract tens of thousands of footy fans to regional Victoria and will help grow participation and community engagement in the sport.

The successful partnership has enabled Ballarat locals to enjoy seven AFL matches at Mars Stadium since 2017, attracting more than 45,000 spectators from across Victoria and interstate, and providing a significant boost to tourism and small businesses in western Victoria.

As part the partnership, the Western Bulldogs will continue to deliver community and social programs to promote grassroots sport in the region.

Mars Stadium is one of the state’s best sporting venues and the Victorian Government has invested $38.47 million to redevelop the Eureka Sports Precinct, followed by a $6.6 million upgrade for new entrances, new ticket boxes and covered areas, and increased accessible seating in the Western and Eastern stands.

With support from the Regional Events Fund, Visit Victoria will also showcase Ballarat to a national audience through integration of destination vignettes in media channels and online platforms.

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“We’re really excited about this new partnership with the Western Bulldogs – it’s a fantastic result for the Ballarat community and a big win for regional Victoria.”

“These games are set to attract thousands of Doggie fans to Mars Stadium and will help to support local jobs and the economy.”

Quote attributable to Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains

“We’ve enjoyed an incredibly strong partnership with the Victorian Government and the City of Ballarat over the last six years.”

“Ballarat (and the broader region) is our second home, and we are both proud and excited to extend our formal partnership for at least a further three years and honour our long-term commitment to the region.”

Quote attributable to Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements

“These blockbuster AFL matches will further strengthen our regional events calendar and we look forward to showcasing Ballarat as a destination to a national audience through media and online channels.”