The announcement of Victoria, and specifically Regional Victoria, to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games is an enormous opportunity for our City and region. Ballarat will host the biggest sport of all, Athletics, along with Boxing and Cricket. Athletics is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of any Comm. Games and accordingly, the investment in Ballarat will need to be substantial to cater to the largest number of athletes, officials and spectators the Games will see.
As good as it is that we will host the games, it is the investment in infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy that is so critical. The games will bring investment in housing, integrated transport, the visitor economy, access and amenities and our sports and entertainment precincts. Together, this investment delivers long-term social, health and economic benefits to the whole region.