Netball fans will have the chance to see their favourite local and international stars right here in Melbourne, with the the final match of the 2024 Constellation Cup International Test Series between the Australian Diamonds and New Zealand Silver Ferns secured in Victoria, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced the current Netball World Cup and Constellation Cup champions will battle it out with their famous New Zealand rivals at John Cain Arena on Wednesday 30 October
The Diamonds, captained by Victorian star Liz Watson, will be defending their title from last year's series and hoping to win the Constellation Cup for the twelfth time - attracting thousands of fans in a boost for hotels, restaurants and tourism operators.
The international test match has been secured by the Labor Government through Visit Victoria's major sponsorship of the Australian Diamonds - which also brought the first game of the 2023 Constellation Cup to Melbourne in front of a sold-out crowd.
Netball has the highest level of participation among young women for any sport in Australia and as the number one ranked national netball team in the world, the Diamonds are an inspiration for thousands of women and girls across all levels of the sport.
Visit Victoria's major sponsorship of the Australian Diamonds is bringing netball events across Victoria including last year's sold-out Super Netball grand final, as well as promotional destination campaigns, branding on uniforms, training camps and community engagement.
The match adds to Victoria's stellar calendar of major events including NRL State of Origin, White Night Ballarat, Pharaoh at NGV and Ballin '24 - which help build on the State's $37.8 billion visitor economy.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"We're bringing the Diamonds back to the home of netball for another massive night at John Cain Arena for the final match of the 2024 Constellation Cup."
"This international sporting contest will delight netball fans and help to attract visitors to Melbourne which is a win for local businesses and jobs across the visitor economy."
As stated by Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements
"We're proud to sponsor the Australian Diamonds and look forward to welcoming a big crowd for this year's Constellation Cup match alongside a packed calendar of sporting and cultural events."
As stated by Netball Australia CEO Stacey West
"We are proud of our partnership with the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria and are excited to finish the series against fierce rivals New Zealand in Melbourne."