NSW Government approves construction of Parramatta Eels’ new home

Parramatta Eels will soon be home to Australia’s largest community rugby league precinct, after the NSW Government approved the construction of a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence and Community Facility at the club’s Kellyville Park base.

Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2023 with the new facility set to be finished by 2025 and boasts a gym, cardio and yoga room for playing squads to go with aquatic rehabilitation pools.

A grandstand will be erected alongside theatre and review rooms, community areas, match-day media rooms and a cafe.

The Centre’s dedicated multi-purpose community facilities will enable the club to expand its community programs, initiatives and engagement, strengthening its connection with the community and passionate fans

The precinct will play a major role in growing women’s rugby league, with the facility being the first venue in Australia capable of hosting dedicated stand-alone NRLW games.

Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Jim Sarantinos notes “this is a significant milestone for the Club as we take another step forward in building Australia's largest community rugby league precinct at Kellyville Park.

“From community engagement to high performance outcomes, this world class facility will be home to our NRL, NRLW and Elite Pathways teams, and will increase participation across all forms of rugby league for boys and girls from grassroots to the elite levels of the game.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the approval brings the vision of a quality public space in north-west Sydney that bridges the gap between elite sport and the general community closer to reality.

Minister Roberts advised “The Parramatta Eels Centre of Excellence and Community Facility delivers on the NSW Government’s commitment to improving open space for the rapidly growing north-west Sydney population.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the Parramatta Eels Centre of Excellence and Community Facility at Kellyville Park would provide integrated world-class high-performance training, administration and community facilities for the identification, development and fostering of rugby league talent.

“Centres of Excellence are a key sporting initiative of the NSW Government aimed at supporting sporting codes to identify and develop the next generation of sporting stars.

“The Parramatta Eels Centre of Excellence will improve male and female pathways and player development in the club’s north-west Sydney heartland, ensuring the Eels continue to challenge for NRL and NRLW premierships in the years to come.”