ACT Government provides $13.5 million for the University of Canberra's 'Sports Commons' project

The ACT Government's $13.5 million backing for the University of Canberra's 'Sports Commons' project includes $5 million over the next four years to accommodate state sport federation ACT Sport and to relocate the ACT Sport Hall of Fame from Canberra Stadium to the University's new sports hub.

The new facility at the University's Bruce Campus will also become the new home for the ACT Brumbies and the Special Olympics organisation.

Relocating the ACT Sport Hall of Fame to the University is expected to to give it a bigger profile, with The Canberra Times reporting that ACT Sport wants to "tap into" Canberra's best sporting minds and bring the Hall of Fame to life in its new home.

ACT Sport Chief Executive Mark Cartwright told The Canberra Times that the move would break down the barriers that have limited the development of sport in Canberra.

Cartwright explained that next year's relocation "is a terrific opportunity to marry the university with the power of sport and for us to work together to create something unique in Australia.

"The best and brightest minds in sport will be there it's almost the perfect storm (and) the challenge is to make sure we're in the best position to activate those opportunities."

The Government's contribution includes a $1 million grant to the Brumbies, which was originally allocated for the upgrade of the Super Rugby club's Griffith headquarters. ACT Sport will move from its current offices in Hackett.

The University of Canberra (UC) Sports Commons project aims to establish the University as Australias leading university for sport education and research.

The UC Sports Commons will support community sporting organisations; enhance learning for university and school students; build on the university's reputation as Australia's leading university for sport education and increase its international reputation for its collaborations, innovation and technology which positively impact on sport performance and active living.

For more information go to www.canberra.edu.au/planning-quality/attachments/pdf/UC-Vision-for-Sport.pdf