Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman has announced $200,000 in State Government funding for upgrades to West Perth’s Dorrien Gardens in preparation for the FIFA Women’s World Cup (FIFAWWC) Australia and New Zealand 2023.
The funding is matched by an Australian Government election commitment of $200,000 as well as $10,000 from Perth Soccer Club, bringing the total amount for upgrades to $410,000.
Dorrien Gardens and the State Football Centre have been selected and announced by FIFA as Western Australian training venues during the tournament. At least one participating team will select an additional Perth facility as their Team Base Camp Training Site for the duration of their Perth stay.
A range of infrastructure upgrades to the venue will soon be underway in order to meet FIFA requirements, as well as providing ongoing benefits for future events held at the venue.
This includes improvements to its changerooms, dugouts, perimeter and safety fencing, drainage, and other general works.
Perth will host five FIFAWWC games at Perth Rectangular Stadium between 22 July and 3 August 2023, during one of the biggest football tournaments WA has ever seen.
The event is expected to deliver millions of dollars of economic benefits to WA – attracting both domestic and international tourists – and showcasing the State on screens around the world.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
“Perth is gearing up with excitement to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and we want to make sure we have world class venues for games and training.
“With joint State and Australian Government funding, along with contributions from the Perth Soccer Club, Dorrien Gardens will receive much-needed upgrades to ensure its changerooms and other areas of the grounds meet FIFA requirements.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to show that Perth has the calibre to host international-standard events at our world class venues.”
As stated by Mount Lawley MLA Simon Millman:
“Perth Soccer Club is a great part of the local community, and I have been pleased to support previous facilities upgrades.
“I am delighted to hear that the McGowan Government has provided this funding to upgrade the facilities to ensure that everything is match fit for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and for future generations to enjoy.
“This announcement is a testament to the quality of facilities at Dorrien Gardens and the role played by the Perth Soccer Club.”
