Regional Cities Victoria launch ‘winning formula’ to ensure 2026 Commonwealth Games lasting legacy

Aimed at ensuring that a lasting legacy is created for the whole of regional Victoria as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Regional Cities Victoria (RCV) has today launched the document ‘The Winning Formula for Regional Victoria’.

Regional Cities Victoria comprises the 10 largest regional cities in Victoria – Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Horsham, Latrobe, Mildura, Shepparton, Wangaratta, Warrnambool and Wodonga. Regional Victoria is home to more than 1.5 million people, or a quarter of all Victorians. Approximately 800,000 people call one of the regional cities home and the cities make up 10% of Victoria’s economy.

As regional Victoria prepares for the biggest event it has ever seen, Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Shane Sali, Deputy Chair of RCV, is calling for measures that ensure all regional cities benefit from the influx of athletes, visitors and publicity the Games will bring.

Mayor Sali said Greater Shepparton was extremely pleased to be hosting a suit of cycling events, including the Road Time Trial, and the BMX Racing competition at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, however he acknowledged the need for the whole of regional Victoria to reap the benefits.

Mayor Sali notes “Shepparton launched an ambitious regional Victoria Commonwealth Games concept nearly six years ago with the idea being to showcase each of the regions which make Victoria such a bold and dynamic state. It is fantastic to see this idea now come to life as we quickly approach the 1000 day mark until the Games are here.

“Greater Shepparton’s involvement in the 2026 Commonwealth Games is a massive achievement which will greatly benefit the local community and provide positive economic stimulus for our accommodation providers, hospitality and retail, as we welcome an influx of visitors to the region.

“We want to ensure the Games create a legacy for the whole of regional Victoria which reaches all corners of the state, and extends beyond the period of the 2026 Games. This regional Victoria model provides the opportunity to showcase the best of regional Victoria, to connect our communities, celebrate our cultural history and encourage visitors to come to each of the regional cities which make up our great state.”

RCV Chair, Councillor Andrea Metcalf said the 2026 Commonwealth Games presents a unique opportunity that must reach all parts of the state - capturing real and positive benefits for locals, and creating a sustainable legacy that future generations can enjoy.

Councillor Metcalf added “it is a priority that First Peoples and Traditional Owners are engaged in all aspects of the Games delivery and ensure they reflect Victoria’s rich cultural history.

“With the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund discontinued in the 2023-24 Victorian Budget, our regional cities need assurance from the Government that they will invest in our regions to ensure they continue to be great places to live, work and visit.”

The ‘Winning Formula for Regional Victoria’ examines six key areas with recommendations that will ensure a lasting legacy for every regional city beyond the event period and across the whole state, not just for the five cities hosting events:

1. Pre-Games Opportunities – hosting and training

• Facilitation of partnerships between regional cities and participating countries to provide a base for their training and Games preparation.

2. Infrastructure – repairing an old legacy and creating a new one

• $2 million for each city to conduct repairs or upgrade sporting facilities in their region.

• All equipment provided for the games is donated to local regional sporting organisations.

• $30 million Regional Parks and Civic Space Program to create new parkland and upgrade existing open spaces.

3. Cultural Experiences – community engagement

• The Victorian Government to sponsor free cultural activities and events across the regions.

4. People - skilled workers and volunteers

• Creation of a new local Victoria Skills Authority liaison officer role to be based in each regional city for at least three years.

• Establish a Commonwealth Games Regional Volunteer Program to provide training, pre-employment qualifications and supported accommodation for 16–21-year-olds to volunteer at the Games.

5. Business procurement – business opportunities

• Regionally based businesses to make up 100 per cent of all opportunities created through the Games’ procurement processes, with priority given to First Nations businesses and employers.

6. Tourism and the visitor economy

• Invest $30 million into a tourism campaign.

• To offer regional tourism packages when people are purchasing their Games tickets.

• Ensure the Royal Baton Relay visits all 10 regional cities, and that the baton is designed by a regional Indigenous artist.

To view the legacy document, visit www.regionalcitiesvictoria.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/The-Winning-Formula-for-Regional-Victoria.pdf