NSW Government approves Centre of Excellence for NRL’s Bulldogs

A brand-new Centre of Excellence for NRL club the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at the Belmore Sports Ground in Sydney’s inner west has been approved by the NSW Government.

The $43 million project will deliver a three-storey, purpose-built facility positioned atop the venue’s Terry Lamb Hill. Designed as a central hub for high-performance rugby league, the building will include modern change rooms, strength and conditioning areas, medical and recovery spaces, as well as dedicated education and meeting rooms.

The facility will also support the Bulldogs women’s team as they prepare for their debut NRLW season, giving them access to the same premium infrastructure as their male counterparts.

In addition to elite athlete facilities, the new Centre is being promoted as being supportive of local sport and the wider community. Community clubs using the surrounding playing fields will benefit from new amenities and change rooms, while the club’s administrative staff will relocate to upgraded offices within the complex.

The development will also feature merchandise outlets, reception areas and modern media facilities.

Fans and visitors will enjoy improved public amenities, including a landscaped forecourt and balcony overlooking the main field, a new LED scoreboard, and upgraded parking for cars and bicycles.

The broader precinct will be enhanced with new trees, landscaped terraces and other green space improvements.

The project has been approved through the state significant development pathway, with planning and assessment managed by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. Construction is slated to begin in October 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2026.

NSW Premier Chris Minns praised the project as a win for both professional sport and the local community, stating "the Bulldogs have a rich legacy, and this new Centre of Excellence will provide their players with facilities that match their ambition,” Premier Minns said. “It’s particularly pleasing that the women’s team will benefit from the same high-performance environment as the men, and equally important that community groups will also have access to these outstanding new amenities.”

State Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis highlighted the broader impact on the local area, adding "this isn’t just about elite sport - it’s an investment in our multicultural community, young talent, and the pride of Belmore,” she said. “It’s a game-changing development that ensures future generations continue to be part of something truly special.”

Images: Artists impression of the Bulldogs Centre of Excellence at Belmore.