The AFL Grand Final will stay in Melbourne for the next 40 years in a landmark announcement that paves the way for major redevelopments of the Etihad Stadium Precinct and the MCG, and delivers a better deal for fans and clubs across Victoria.
Premier Daniel Andrews joined Minister for Sport John Eren today to unveil details of the agreement between the AFL and the Andrews Labor Government that guarantees the AFL Grand Final will be held at the 'G – where it belongs – until at least 2057.
The long-term security provided by the deal will enable the Melbourne Cricket Ground Trust to undertake a major redevelopment of the MCG – keeping it in its rightful place as one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.
The deal includes redevelopment of the Etihad Stadium Sports and Entertainment Precinct, which will deliver upgrades for rectangular sports like soccer and rugby, improve women's change facilities and guarantees access for other codes and major events.
Tenant clubs at both the MCG and Etihad Stadium will get a fairer deal under the agreement, which will provide clubs with a better financial outcome from all matches.
The deal will also bring more footy to regional Victoria – with two matches in Ballarat every year for the next decade and at least eight matches in Geelong for the next 30 years – and see the Brownlow Medal ceremony in Victoria for the next 10 years.
Ikon Park will be redeveloped into the home of women's footy in Victoria and other AFLW and suburban grounds will be upgraded, including Whitten Oval, Victoria Park and Casey Fields. Stage 2 of the Moorabbin Oval redevelopment will also be delivered, allowing the Saints' AFLW team to play there from 2020.
The Labor Government has invested $225 million in the Victorian Budget 2018/19 to secure this landmark deal as part of a nearly half-a-billion-dollar boost to sport across Victoria, which includes a masterplan for the State Basketball Centre and the biggest investment to women’s and community sport in the state’s history.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
"This is for the fans – giving them the best venues, better access to the sports they love, and keeping the Grand Final where it belongs – at the MCG – for the next 40 years."
"This landmark deal will bring more footy to the regions, boost AFLW facilities and make sure Victoria stays the sporting capital of Australia."
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
"It gives Victorian fans and clubs a better deal and access to the best facilities, while sealing our place as the home of the biggest blockbuster events in the country."
Reviewed 19 August 2020