Kardinia Park has been an important community, sporting and events destination of over 100 years. Reaching 10 years of stadium operations under Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST) management, it is important that the precinct continues to evolve to meet the growing needs of the region.
Committed to fostering social, economic and liveability outcomes for the region; KPST can today announce that exploration of a Kardinia Park transformation has commenced to examine the opportunities to maximise its potential and address the current and emerging needs of Geelong and the Bellarine.
Delivered in partnership with the Victorian Government, City of Greater Geelong and precinct stakeholders, the work will encompass the entire Kardinia Park Precinct and explore the economic, social and governance opportunities of a precinct transformation.
The announcement today builds upon on the completion of the $142 million Kardinia Park Stadium Stage 5 Redevelopment, which delivered the Joel Selwod Stand, increasing the overall stadium capacity to 40,000, Djilang Plaza, the Barwon Regional Cricket Centre and the Geelong Sports Museum.
KPST is proud to manage 35 percent of Kardinia Park, supporting the precinct’s ongoing status as Australia’s premier regional sporting and events destination.
In the 2024/25 financial year, Kardinia Park Stadium generated over $190 million in social and economic value, supported 1,200 direct and indirect jobs for the Victorian economy, and hosted more than 480,000 visitors across 44 on-field events. The venue has not only drawn 190,000 visitors from outside the region but also served as a hub for local engagement, with 21,000 participants involved in five community events at Kardinia Park.
As one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia, Geelong is experiencing a rapid population increase, with a current growth rate of 2.4% expected to double by 2050.
With a strong foundation laid, KPST is determined to build further for the future. With our stakeholders at the centre of everything we do, we remain committed to evolving and expanding for the benefit of the region and its people.
Minister for Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos said “Kardinia Park plays a central role in Geelong’s proud sporting and events identity.
This planning work will help ensure the precinct continues to grow with the needs of Geelong and the Bellarine.”
Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens said, “Kardinia Park is a centre for local and elite sports, and major events in Geelong, attracting many visitors to the region. Exploring the next stage of transformation for the precinct will help ensure it continues to be a thriving place for the community.”
Member for Lara, Ella George said, “A Kardinia Park that suits the future needs of the entire region is key as we continue to be one of the fastest growing areas in the country.”
Member for Bellarine, Alison Marchant said, “The development of the Kardinia Park precinct will support future generations across the Bellarine and Greater Geelong region, providing a premier sporting, entertainment and community precinct close to home.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust Chair, Hon Mr John Eren said, “Kardinia Park is a unique place in Australia, and we look forward to embarking on the next stage of planning to ensure we have a strong, vibrant, and flexible Kardinia Park that supports the community.”
