Victorian Rugby Union to benefit from new Centre of Excellence at La Trobe University

Construction of a new elite facility supporting Victorian Rugby Union and grassroots clubs is now underway.

Backed by a $31 million investment from the Victorian Government, the new Victorian Rugby Centre of Excellence at La Trobe University Sports Park will provide a home for Rugby Victoria to base its administration, sport development programs and high-performance training.

The Centre of Excellence will also benefit community sport, with local clubs having access the state-of-the-art facilities for development programs, while training for volunteers, administrators, referees and coaches will be conducted at the centre.

Set be the new home for the Melbourne Rebels Super W team, supporting the development of emerging players and providing a training centre match day field for state representative teams, players will have two dedicated rugby fields - one with a grandstand, and a shared field incorporating a rugby field and AFL oval.

The development is also a boost for La Trobe University’s sports education credentials as well, with the new centre to be available for students’ learning and research activities.

Part of the Victorian Government’s $101 million investment into the sporting precinct, which also includes the Home of the Matildas, the project is among 18 major sports infrastructure investments underway across the state, with more than $738 million to deliver top tier facilities.

Commenting on the project, Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos stated “this project is a massive boost for rugby in Victoria, providing a new base for Melbourne Rebels Super W while backing local clubs from the grassroots up.”

Rugby Victoria President, Neil Hay added “we are thrilled with the progress of the project.

“The early works are well underway, and we look forward to commencing the main works in the new year. This world class facility will be a game changer for rugby in Victoria.”

Image: Concept for the new Victorian Rugby Centre of Excellence at La Trobe University Sports Park.