Football West have confirmed that the main works contract for the new State Football Centre in WA have been awarded, with works scheduled to begin later this month.
The joint investment from both the Australian and WA governments will unleash a significant redevelopment to the land at Queens Park Open Space, providing a world-class sporting facility for football in WA.
Football West CEO James Curtis stated: “There has been great anticipation from the WA football community for the start of construction of the State Football Centre, and that excitement will increase as we watch it being built in the coming year.
“Football West has worked closely with all levels of Government on securing a home for football in Western Australia and we are now little more than a year away from its completion prior to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“The State Football Centre will provide WA football with a world-class facility and one that will connect all levels of the game and create a legacy for future generations.”
The State Football Centre will be utilised as a training venue for the 2023 Women’s World Cup, for nine teams at the tournament.
According to the Football West Website, “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 also host Football West finals, community programs, and be key to the long-term development of female football as well as a hub for visiting overseas clubs.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said of the works: “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.”
Premier Mark McGowan said: “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.”
WA Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman stated: “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.”