Work has begun at La Trobe University in Bundoora, as a next step towards the Commonwealth Bank Matildas calling Victoria home.
Visual designs of the Home of the Matildas have been released, showcasing the premium football destination in the recently upgraded La Trobe University Sports Park.
Across the next 12 months, stage one of the project will deliver five hybrid, natural and synthetic pitches, with grandstand seating for over 800 spectators and a full capacity in excess of 3,000 around the show pitch.
The main building will encompass a 400sqm gym, extensive sports science zone, elite level recovery/wet area, multiple change rooms including a purpose designed circular Matildas locker room, theatrette and function/meeting spaces.
Victoria’s futsal community will enjoy the construction of a purpose-built futsal pitch alongside the show pitch, providing the fast-growing indoor version of our game with its own premium arena.
The football community will also enjoy access to the indoor facility for futsal and all-abilities football programs and competitions.
The Matildas will enjoy full access to the facility while in camp, but the wider football community will reap the benefits of the facility year round, with over 3,500 hours per year dedicated to community bookings.
An ambitious construction schedule is now well underway, ensuring the facility is ready for the Matildas in March 2023, as they prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events – The Hon. Martin Pakula – is excited about the opportunities that La Trobe University Sports Park in Bundoora will deliver for Victoria.
“This project delivers major benefits for football, rugby, the university and the local community – and it will create 600 jobs during construction,” he said.
Football Victoria President Antonella Care celebrated the progress.
“Victorian football has waited a long time for a project of this scale, a development that truly matches the lofty ambitions we have for our game,” she said.
“We are thrilled to see the first works begin in this landmark precinct, a true home of football in Victoria, which will have a significant impact on the development of the womens’ game and football overall, for decades to come.”
