A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest $45 million to redevelop the Nunawading Basketball Centre into a new regional indoor sports stadium that will deliver for the growing population in Melbourne’s east and southeast.

This election commitment will go towards a new Nunawading Indoor Sports Centre, a multi-use facility that will become a hub for indoor sports including netball, volleyball, badminton and adaptive sports.

The Nunawading Indoor Sports Centre will host regional tournaments and events and become a performance training hub for elite basketball athletes and teams, while also supporting the delivery of additional programs like SEDA College and Adaptive Sports.

The 55-year-old site hosts more than 12,000 members, 20,000 games a year and more than one million annual visitors – but is currently at capacity.

This funding will provide a vital boost to the Centre, community health and wellbeing and the local economy.

Today’s announcement builds on the $35 million already committed by the Whitehorse City Council as well as the strong advocacy from the local sporting community as well as Nunawading Basketball and Basketball Australia.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King MP:

“Labor is delivering this critical boost to support the growing community of Melbourne’s east with vital sporting facilities.

“I grew up around the corner from the Centre and my brother and sisters played there – I know exactly how much this means to the local community.

“From the thousands of basketball games, volleyball matches or badminton tournaments, we know how essential the redeveloped Nunawading Indoor Sports Centre will be for community connection, health and wellbeing.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Chisholm Carina Garland MP:

“Anyone who plays basketball in the eastern or southeastern suburbs of Melbourne has played at Nunawading Basketball Stadium. It is an iconic location for people in our community.

“I’ve heard from parents who played at Nunawading Basketball Stadium themselves, who now have children playing there. This much needed injection of funding is hugely important to current and future generations in our community. It will go a long way towards upgrading this venue that has had no major works done in decades.

“This announcement is also a huge win for locals participating in Special Olympics and all abilities programs, as well as students at local primary schools who utilise the facilities.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Candidate for Menzies Gabriel Ng:

“I met with Nunawading Basketball earlier this year and know that thousands of people in Menzies use this stadium.

“This funding commitment will allow more members of my community to get involved not just in the booming sport of basketball, but also increase participation in volleyball, netball and other sports.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Candidate for Deakin Matt Gregg:

“This investment is a game-changer for our community’s sports infrastructure. It will slash waiting lists, boost participation across multiple sports, and foster stronger community ties and better physical health.

“From school kids to the young at heart, it’s about giving everyone more opportunities to get active and stay connected.”

SATURDAY, 12 APRIL 2025