The most loved names in world tennis will converge on Melbourne in January for what will be the biggest and best Australian Open yet.
Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren joined Tennis Australia CEO and Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley at Melbourne Park today to officially launch Australian Open 2018.
This year’s Australian Open was one of the most successful with a record 728,000 fans pouring through the gates, creating an expected 1,100 jobs and injecting more than $280 million into the economy.
Worldwide, around a billion people a day tuned in to the action from Melbourne on TV and even more on social media.
Hosting the Grand Slam of the Asia-Pacific is part of what makes Victoria the sporting and major events capital of Australia – and the Andrews Labor Government will make sure it stays that way.
That’s why the Labor Government announced $271.55 million in this year’s Budget to complete the third stage of the Melbourne Park redevelopment, featuring a new 5,000 seat show court arena.
This guarantees the Australian Open will remain in Melbourne until at least 2036.
Major upgrades to Rod Laver Arena’s truss and back of house will ensure it can attract and stage the biggest shows and productions in the world.
Fans can also look forward to a new and exciting range of food and beverage outlets, a wider concourse to get around more easily, improved access and facilities for people with a disability, and better bathrooms.
The 2018 Australian Open will take place from 15-28 January. Tickets are on sale now at: ausopen.com.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“The 2018 Australian Open will attract more visitors, create more jobs and show the world that Victoria has the best of everything.”
“With record crowds pouring through the gates this year, we're building the facilities needed to ensure even more people can enjoy one of the greatest sporting events in the world.”
Quotes attributable to Tennis Australia CEO and Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley
“The tremendous support of the Victorian Government has ensured the Australian Open leads the world in Grand Slam facilities, and the current upgrades to Rod Laver Arena will improve access and comfort for our fans.”
“Creating a five-star service for our players is a priority for the Australian Open, and is a point of difference that makes us the favourite event for so many.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020