The funding will help transform the iconic WACA Ground into a venue with female friendly facilities for WA’s elite women’s teams, as cricket continues to lead the charge in leveling the playing field for women in sport.

In addition to this investment Cricket Australia will provide $4 million, the WACA will raise another $10 million through the WA Cricket Foundation, with the hope that $30 million from the State Government will be secured before the State Election.

Plans to improve the home of cricket in WA will focus on creating a sustainable community and sporting hub with cricket at its heart, providing a multi-sport indoor facility and year-round public access to the WA community.

WACA Chair Hon. Ken Michael and CEO Christina Matthews welcomed Madeleine King MP, Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs and Member for Perth, Patrick Gorman MP along with a host of WA Labor Members and candidates to the WACA Ground today to announce the $30 million commitment.

Bill Shorten, Leader of the Opposition said:

“Sport brings Western Australians together and the WACA has brought people together since 1890.

“The WACA Ground is home to so many iconic cricket moments and I want to ensure its future for all Western Australians.

“Labor’s commitment means Perth and all of WA will have a ground to see world-class cricket at, and the next generation of stars in women’s cricket and men’s cricket will have the very best to train and play at.”

WACA CEO Christina Matthews said:

“Today’s announcement is an exciting step for the future of cricket in Western Australia. We thank Bill Shorten and Federal Labor for its support of cricket in WA and the WACA Ground Improvement Project.

“The WACA Ground is truly iconic and known around the world. It is the oldest and most famous sporting ground in WA. Now we can retain its heritage, while creating a venue with gender equal, multi-sport facilities and a strong community focus.

“This funding commitment will provide an opportunity to utilise the WACA Ground as a boutique ground that complements Optus Stadium and activates the East Perth precinct.

Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said:

“This is a significant announcement for Australian Cricket and a historic moment for the WACA Ground – the scene of some of the most memorable moments in the history of our game.

This investment will leave a lasting legacy by breathing new life into the WACA Ground and securing its position as the home of cricket in Western Australia for generations to come.”