Victorian communities encouraged to contribute ideas for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Local communities across Victoria have been asked for ideas on how to best showcase their region during the 2026 Commonwealth Games with the Victorian Government having extended the deadline on the Call for Ideas process to 12th August.

The Call for Ideas process is capturing ideas from local residents and businesses, Traditional Owner groups, creative and cultural organisations, and local councils – ensuring every part of Victoria can benefit from the Commonwealth Games.

Victorian Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan advises “we’re working closely with a number of different community groups to ensure the 2026 Victoria Games showcase the very best regional Victoria has to offer.’

“The Commonwealth Games will deliver major benefits to the regions, and it is fantastic to see local clubs and venues including Latrobe City Stadium becoming home to some of the world’s best athletes.’’

With four regional hubs including Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland officially confirmed for the Games, there is now the opportunity for more regions to play a role in Victoria 2026.

The Games will deliver significant economic and social benefits to the Gippsland region, including housing and world-class sports facilities.

Gippsland is also expected to benefit greatly from the influx of visitors and sporting fans travelling to watch the Games be played at Latrobe City Stadium and other venues across the region.

It is estimated the Commonwealth Games will contribute more than $3 billion to the state’s economy.

With hundreds of athletes and officials set to be housed in the athlete village, the region will benefit in the long term with a proportion of the village to be converted into affordable and social housing following the Games.

For more information and to get involved, visit vic.gov.au/victoria2026.

Image: Gippsland Sport and Entertainment Park Courtesy: Latrobe Valley Events Precinct