More than $49 million invested to expand and upgrade sport and recreation infrastructure across Canberra

Aimed at creating more spaces for communities to play, train, and connect, the 2025-26 ACT Budget is investing more than $49 million to expand and upgrade sport and recreation infrastructure across Canberra.

This major investment includes:

• Construction of new playing fields and a pavilion in Taylor, including early planning and design work starting in 2025-26

• The first stage of the Stromlo District Playing Fields in Molonglo, with facilities to support high-quality community sport in one of Canberra's fastest-growing areas

• A boost to the Sports and Recreation Investment Scheme to support local clubs and facilities

• These new and existing venues will help meet growing demand from clubs and local communities as Canberra continues to expand.

• The expansion of Taylor District Playing Fields will deliver modern, inclusive facilities with two new rectangle synthetic grass fields with LED lighting for extended use, and a new sports pavilion with female friendly changerooms, public toilets, and community amenities.

Stage 1 of the Stromlo District Playing Fields will include a synthetic grass sportsground with two rectangular fields and a modified AFL oval, LED sportsground lighting, a sports pavilion, and essential civil works such as roads, parking, stormwater treatment, and landscaping.

The Government will also double its investment in the Sports and Recreation Investment Scheme, with $2 million over two years for grants to support new and upgraded community sporting infrastructure around the city.

ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said the Budget delivers on the Government's commitment to support healthy, active lifestyles and more inclusive participation in sport.

Minister Berry noted "whether it's young people joining their first team or volunteers coaching on the weekend, these new facilities that are fit for purpose, sustainable and accessible will give more Canberrans the chance to get involved in community sport.

"By investing in sport infrastructure where people live and grow, we're building stronger, healthier and more connected suburbs."

Treasurer Chris Steel said this was a Budget that reflects the needs of a growing city and added "this investment delivers long-term benefits for local communities by building sport and recreation infrastructure that supports wellbeing, inclusion, and a high quality of life.

"Construction of the Stromlo District Playing Fields is much needed to support the growing Molonglo Valley. We have a range of sporting clubs covering the Molonglo area that are itching to start using these high-quality facilities for training and matches closer to where their members live."

This builds on the ACT Government's commitment to creating a city that supports active living and recognises the vital role sport plays in bringing people together.