Construction has commenced on a new $25.3 million South Australian National Football League (SANFL) facility at West Lakes, aiming to develop the next generation of South Australian football talent. The SANFL Talent and Community Facility, funded by both the Albanese and SA Governments alongside the SANFL and AFL, is set to become a hub for talent pathways for local athletes and a center for community use.
Located at what used to be Football Park, the historical home of Australian Rules Football in the region for over four decades until AFL fixtures moved to Adelaide Oval in 2014, the new development promises a blend of sports and community facilities. Included in the design are unisex player change rooms, a gymnasium for strength and conditioning, athlete recovery facilities, allied health practice rooms, new administration offices for SANFL Talent Development, and a plaza for community and sporting events. There will also be a multifunctional community function centre.
According to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King, the facility will directly benefit more than 300 players. “This fabulous facility will support more than 300 players directly involved in SANFL underage male and female state talent programs, as well as First Nations and multicultural programs.
“It will enhance community connections while supporting South Australians’ health and wellbeing – two values at the core of our government’s approach to federal funding.”
Mark Butler, Federal Minister for Health and Member for Hindmarsh, shared, “I’m thrilled we can deliver this new facility at West Lakes.
“Our investment in the old Football Park space will mean community members can use this multi-purpose function centre and education spaces.”
South Australian Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, Katrine Hildyard, shared “Community facilities like this are powerful in improving people’s physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing, in bringing people together and in creating a really strong sense of community.
“This inclusive facility will further cement South Australia as a national leader for women’s football. Backing girls and women in sport means creating the facilities they need to equally and actively participate in the sport they love. This facility sends a strong message that they are welcome to do just that.”
Darren Chandler, Chief Executive Officer of the SANFL, described the construction of the $25 million Talent and Community precinct as a pivotal advancement for the SANFL’s dedication to nurturing top young male and female athletes in the state.
“The construction of the $25 million Talent and Community precinct at West Lakes is a monumental step forward for SANFL and our commitment to developing the best young male and female athletes in our state.
“This significant project, which has been five years in the making, gives our most talented young players the best opportunity to succeed and to realise the dream of playing Australian football at the highest levels.
“Not only will it be a state-of-the-art facility that supports young South Australians, but also a place for broader community connection, enjoyment and improved health and wellbeing.
“We are thrilled to finally see this exciting project for the future of football in South Australia come to life over the next 12 months.”
The construction project, expected to complete by November 2025, will provide employment for over 100 workers during its development phase. With a total investment comprising $6 million from the Albanese Government and $5 million from the SA Government, along with contributions from the SANFL and AFL, this facility represents a substantial commitment to the future of Australian football and local community enrichment at West Lakes.
