Ballarat is in for another gold rush as preparations get underway for the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games, including an up to $150 million upgrade to Eureka Stadium thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
A new athletics track will be built at the site and the stadium will be expanded to hold an additional 5,000 permanent seats, with improved accessibility access.
These upgrades will mean a bigger and better experience for spectators at Eureka Stadium in the years to come, and ensure Ballarat continues to attract major events and live music.
For the Games an additional 18,000 temporary seats will be installed as will a competition standard track on the existing playing field.
Eureka Stadium will be host Athletics and Para Athletics, with Ballarat's action-packed sports program to include the Marathon and Boxing.
Mountain Bike (MTB) Racing will be staged within the 60-kilometres of trails in Creswick.
Ballarat has a decorated history in long-distance running, most notably as the birthplace of Steve Moneghetti who won gold in the Marathon at the 1994 Commonwealth Games.
The Games village location has also been locked in at the Ballarat Saleyards and will be a home-away-from-home for about 1,800 athletes and officials.
The local community will see a long-term investment in vital housing and community infrastructure in line with the Ballarat Urban 2040 core strategy.
The village will be designed in consultation with the local community and Traditional Owners, celebrating the rich culture of the Wadawurrung people and Ballarat's iconic attractions, experiences and people.
Ballarat will also host a major festival alongside the Commonwealth Games, making the most of the region's vibrant festival culture. The city is already synonymous for White Night, Springfest and the FOTO Biennale and this artistic flair will be on show to the world during the Games through renowned institutions like the Art Gallery of Ballarat.
The Labor Government is also investing $50 million to upgrade Ballarat's historic train station in a historically sensitive way, with passenger lifts on both platforms and a connecting pedestrian overpass, so spectators of all abilities can enjoy all that Victoria 2026 has to offer.
For more information about the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games, visit vic.gov.au/victoria2026External Link.
As stated by Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan
"We're investing in Eureka Stadium to ensure it's a world-class venue not just for Victoria 2026 but for decades to come."
As stated by Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy Shaun Leane
"Millions will tune in to watch athletics and the Ballarat Saleyards will get a new lease on life - this is just part of the legacy of Victoria 2026."
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
"A Games village that will deliver a legacy of housing, a $50 million investment at Ballarat Station for accessibility and the marathon being held here- this is a great day for Ballarat."
As stated by Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle
"We're bringing an amazing program of sports and events to Ballarat and the surrounding communities, and every Victorian should come and experience our award-winning attractions and world-class food and wine."
As stated by Commonwealth Games Australia CEO Craig Phillips
"Mountain Bike will once again feature at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, and there is no better home than Creswick. Its extensive range of trails make it one of the best stages in the world."
