The Andrews Labor Government has revealed the builder that will deliver the refurbishment of Rod Laver Arena.
Minister for Public Transport and Employment Jacinta Allan announced today that Lendlease will be the managing contractor for the refurbishment.
As well as being the Australian Open’s centre court, Rod Laver Arena is the country’s most popular concert venue by ticket sales. Nearly 290,000 tickets have been sold in the first three quarters this year.
The new refurbishment will allow Rod Laver Arena to host more shows and bigger productions with improvements including:
- a new eastern entrance to the arena
- a more efficient loading bay that will reduce the down time between concerts
- better equipment rigging facilities so Rod Laver can host the biggest shows
- automated retractable seating that can be set up in a matter of hours
- improved eateries offering diners a wider variety of options in more convenient locations.
The refurbishment is part of the more than $700 million Melbourne Park Redevelopment, which includes a new Administration and Media Building, and Batman Avenue footbridge.
Work on Rod Laver Arena will begin after the 2016 Australian Open and is expected to be complete in 2019.
Quote attributable to the Minister for Public Transport and Employment Jacinta Allan
“As well as being one of Australia’s biggest sporting venues, it is also one of our biggest concert venues, with more people go to see music and productions at Rod Laver area than any other stadium in Australia.”
“This multi-million dollar project will help drive the Victorian economy and will create 1300 jobs during construction.”
Quote attributable to the Minister for Sport John Eren
“This fantastic redevelopment project will cement Melbourne’s place as the sporting and events capital, creating a better experience for the many thousands of people who attend the tennis and events at Rod Laver.”
Quotes attributable to CEO of Melbourne & Olympic Parks Brian Morris
“The improvements planned will be the most significant to take place in the history of Rod Laver Arena. The back-of-house upgrades will allow our promoters and hirers to bring bigger and better shows to the Arena, while the overall event experience will be greatly enhanced for our patrons.”
“We’re delighted to again work with the award-winning team at Lend Lease.”
Quotes attributable to CEO of Tennis Australia Craig Tiley
“Rod Laver Arena was the first multi-purpose venue designed specifically to showcase tennis and this upgrade will guarantee it retains its place as one of the best arenas for our sport in the world.”
“Our fans know the atmosphere at Rod Laver Arena during the Australian Open is very special and every seat gets you close to the best tennis action in the world.”
Quotes attributable to General Manager of Lendlease’s Building Victoria Joe Kokai
“We are thrilled to be again partnering with the Victorian Government to significantly transform one of Australia’s most prolific sports and entertainment venues.”
“The refurbishment of Rod Laver Arena will ensure the iconic venue further enhances its international status, attracting the biggest blockbuster sporting and entertainment events in the world.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020