The main works contract for the new State Football Centre in Queens Park has been awarded to Broad Construction, with works scheduled to begin this month.
The main construction contract award follows the completion of forward works on the project, which started in 2021.
The joint investment from the Australian and State governments will revitalise the land at Queens Park Open Space and provide a world-class sporting facility that will cater to all levels of football - from grassroots to high-performance development.
The facility will include two floodlit pitches capable of high-performance and high-intensity use, including supporting infrastructure such as change rooms and a gym, as well as administration facilities for Football West.
It will be a centre-of-excellence for Australia and the Indian Ocean rim, and is due for completion in mid-2023 - in time to be used as a training venue for the nine international teams travelling to Perth for their FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 five group-stage matches.
The new State Football Centre will be able to house up to 700 spectators through permanent seating with the ability to expand its capacity up to 2,000 spectators through temporary seating for occasional special events.
International and A-League football matches will continue to be held at HBF Park or Optus Stadium.
The design and footprint of the facility will enable future expansion to meet the growth requirements of the sport.
The State Government has worked closely with the City of Canning and residents to ensure the preservation of surrounding bushland and improved access to the new playing fields through the Queens Park Open Space Masterplan.
As stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce:
"We are getting the job done for Western Australians, delivering the infrastructure and facilities they need and deserve.
"Once complete, the State Football Centre will provide the state's future sports stars with a platform from which to reach their dreams.
"It will also attract more events to Perth, supporting jobs, boosting tourism and driving new economic opportunities for the state."
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"The State Football Centre will give the sport a dedicated home in Western Australia, providing a place for young talent to develop their potential.
"The finished product will be a major contribution to football in our State, and provide the facilities and programs needed to support the sport's growth in WA.
"We look forward to delivering the State Football Centre in advance of the 2023 Women's World Cup, where some of the world's best will descend on Perth for the global tournament."
As stated by WA Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
"All across WA, the McGowan Government is helping local clubs to build facilities that will cater for the growing number of participants.
"We know that communities who meaningfully engage in sport are healthier and more cohesive as a result.
"This state-of-the-art centre will include training facilities and playing fields to support grassroots, community and high-performance football programs.
"The State Football Centre will provide a world-class training facility for the nine visiting international teams that Perth will be hosting for the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023."
As stated by Federal Member for Swan Steve Irons:
"The Australian Government has a strong track record of investing in a brighter future for Western Australians, one filled with more opportunities at their very doorsteps.
"We've already delivered $13 million for the Lathlain Park redevelopment and over $9.67 million for the construction of the Belmont Community Centre and Library, which was completed last year.
"We also have $4 million on the table for each of the Edward Millen and Lathlain Precinct redevelopments, which will unlock even more jobs, economic stimulus and local opportunities."
