The Matildas can now call La Trobe University home after the facility was officially opened before the FIFA Women’s World Cup gets underway.
The multi-million dollar precinct has come to life, marking a significant milestone for infrastructure investment in Victoria.
Steve Dimopoulos, Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, was on hand at La Trobe University’s Bundoora campus to launch what will be the go-to destination for all Matildas players to prepare for national tournaments.
The project was made possible with a $101 million investment by the Andrews’ Labor Government into La Trobe University Sports Park, with the $42.29 million for The Home of The Matildas – the biggest investment ever made by any level of government for a football-specific project in Australia – adding to the Federal Government’s contribution of $15 million.
Designed by leading female architects, the facility includes two state-of-the-art hybrid turf pitches, two FIFA-grade synthetic pitches (with another to be constructed later this year), twelve change rooms (including the CommBank Matildas’ own, customised changing room), a fully-equipped gym, outstanding medical facilities, modern wet recovery areas, premium function rooms, coaching development spaces and a boutique, 800-seat grandstand with elevated sight lines.
The Home of Matildas is also going to be etched in history, becoming the first female-focused facility in Asia – a significant pathway opportunity for grassroots footballers to elevate their game.
Yesterday, our world-class football precinct was officially opened by @Steve_Dimo, ready to support the world’s best female footballers ahead of the @FIFAWWC.
Take a look inside The Home of The Matildas at @latrobe.@TheMatildas @FootballAUS #homeofthematildas pic.twitter.com/ZtknECmGVi
— Football Victoria (@footballvic) July 4, 2023
On the day of this reveal, the Matildas’ World Cup was announced with a number of key speakers.
Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events:
“This facility will provide a training base in Australia for the likes of Sam Kerr and Steph Catley, but more importantly it will help to develop the next generation of champions inspired by this year’s Women’s World Cup.”
Football Australia CEO James Johnson:
“The Home of the Matildas will provide our most talented Australian Women’s National Team footballers and staff the opportunity to thrive and a place of excellence for the next generation to develop.”
Football Victoria Head of Marketing, Engagement and Legacy, Mandy McCarter:
“It is our hope The Home Of The Matildas becomes more than just a football precinct and that it becomes a symbol of empowerment, opportunity, and equality.”
“It sends a powerful message to the world that in Australia, we value and celebrate female talent and achievement.”
Professor John Dewar AO, Vice-Chancellor, La Trobe University:
“I’m thrilled to welcome the CommBank Matildas to our exceptional new Sports Park facilities and, on behalf of the entire La Trobe University community, I wish the team every success in the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.”
The precinct hosts the Jamaican Women’s National Football Team, before the facility will be regarded as the State Football Centre to host key events.
Stage Two of the project will involve further grandstand seating and community facilities to support the needs of footballers across Victoria, Australia and internationally.
