Football Victoria has welcomed recent engagement with Deputy Prime Minister the Hon Richard Marles MP, as well as ongoing discussions with State Member for Lara Ella George MP, City of Greater Geelong Councillor Eddy Kontelj, and other key regional stakeholders, as part of a growing movement to establish a dedicated Regional Football Hub in Geelong.
Recent advocacy has underscored Geelong’s rapid population growth and rising football participation rates. Current data reveals a clear infrastructure gap, with no high‑quality, multi‑pitch venue capable of hosting major events and programs, unlike other key regional centres.
State Member for Lara, Ella George MP, voiced her strong backing for the proposed hub, stating:
“We’ve seen massive growth in football across Geelong in recent years – particularly as the Matildas continue to inspire the next generation of women and girls!”
She added,
“One opportunity is a future Regional Football Facility in Geelong – a world class sporting facility that could support more statewide community competitions and deliver elite football events to Geelong. And I’d love to see this in Geelong’s North!”
Football Geelong Chair Mike McKinstry and Deputy Chair Rob Palmaricciotti continue to rally support from the local football community, drawing the attention of Cr Eddy Kontelj, who remarked on the “support, enthusiasm and commitment to deliver such an important piece of infrastructure in the north of Geelong [as] extremely encouraging.”
Beyond the Regional Hub, Football Victoria’s advocacy extends to ensuring long-term, sustainable local infrastructure that meets growing demand, from grassroots programs and community football to talent development pathways.
Planning continues in partnership with the City of Greater Geelong, including early-stage master planning and consultation for key sites in Geelong’s south such as the new Coastside Drive Recreation Reserve and future upgrades at Sovereign Drive Reserve. These projects add to the upcoming delivery of works at Drysdale Sports Precinct and the new Devlin’s Road Reserve, developments partly funded following the recent federal election.
As these new sites come online, Council’s ongoing support will be critical in addressing demand across Geelong’s high-growth corridors and creating opportunities for the next generation of footballers.
“We’re excited to be working with all levels of government and local leaders who recognise the role football plays in bringing communities together,” said Football Victoria’s Head of Government Relations & Strategy, Lachlan Cole. “Our shared vision alongside the City of Greater Geelong is about more than just pitches – it’s about delivering inclusive, accessible, and future-focused facilities for people to referee, coach, play, and connect.”
With continued collaboration and united advocacy, Geelong is positioning itself to meet the needs of its thriving football community, now and into the future.
