Deputy Premier and Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan visited Morwell today to call for community ideas about how to best showcase regional Victoria as part of 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Minister toured the Gippsland Sports and Entertainment Park in Morwell, which is set to host Rugby Sevens, with Mayor Cr Kellie O’Callaghan, Councillors, local sporting clubs and community organisations.
The deadline for the Call for Ideas process has been extended to 12 August, aiming to capture ideas from residents and businesses, Traditional Owner groups, creative and cultural organisations, and local councils – ensuring every part of Victoria can benefit from the Commonwealth Games.
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 the Gippsland Sports and Entertainment Park and other venues across the region.
Mayor of Latrobe City Cr Kellie O’Callaghan said the games would present a range of valuable opportunities for the Gippsland region and will provide a lasting legacy in Latrobe City beyond 2026.
“We appreciate the opportunity to meet with the Deputy Premier to learn more about how our community can get involved in the planning process.
“We are so excited for the possibilities that lay ahead, and we look forward to working with the Victorian Government to shape something special,” said the Mayor.
