Melbourne City FC and the City of Casey welcome the announcement of a $10.68 million funding commitment towards the construction of a new boutique rectangular stadium at Casey Fields – contingent on the outcome of the upcoming Federal Election.
This proposed facility, to be known as Casey Mini Stadium, would include a natural turf pitch, grandstand seating on the western perimeter, and modern amenities designed for both community and elite-level sport.
This development aims to address the growing demand for quality rectangular venues in Victoria, driven by the surge in popularity of women’s football following the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the continued growth of rugby league.
By providing a venue suitable for elite competitions, the stadium would offer significant benefits for local athletes, clubs, and fans, enabling them to watch and participate in top-level sport within their own community.
Melbourne City FC CEO, Brad Rowse was joined by Federal Member for Holt Cassandra Fernando, The Hon. Catherine King – Minister for Infrastructure, The Hon. Julian Hill, Federal Member for Bruce and Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen, and Melbourne Storm CEO, Justin Rodski for the announcement.
Reflecting on the initiative, Rowse said:
“As the sport with the highest junior participation numbers in Australia, Melbourne City FC welcomes any commitment to build essential sporting infrastructure that supports the pathway from grassroots right through to elite competitions.
“Should this funding be confirmed after the Federal Election, Casey Mini Stadium would serve as a vital hub for our youth academy and elite teams, while delivering facilities of the highest quality for local clubs and communities.
“With women’s football on the rise, the stadium would serve as the dedicated home for our A-League Women’s team, delivering a venue that shines as a beacon for the women’s game. It would also showcase our youth academy and offer potential for Australia Cup and pre-season fixtures for our men’s team.
“Our priority is to work with all stakeholders to create a space that strengthens football and benefits the entire South-East community, and we look forward to bringing this vision to life for the benefit of the entire region.”
Federal Member for Holt, Cassandra Fernando said:
“Completion of the Casey Mini-Stadium will ensure everyone in our community has a world-class sporting and training facility at their doorstep.
“The Mini-Stadium will be home to community sporting tournaments and will give the children in our area a leg up for training.”
