29
May
Upgrade Granted
Belconnen Stadium's $37.5M budget bonanza
Belconnen Basketball Stadium. Photo: Basketball ACT
Belconnen Basketball Stadium Expansion: ACT Budget gives $37.5 Million Upgrade to 7-court stadum
- ACT Government commits $37.5 million in 2026-27 Budget to expand Belconnen Basketball Stadium from four to seven indoor courts
- New convertible show court will seat up to 1,800 spectators, allowing Canberra to host higher-level competitions
- Project responds to surging demand, with more than 14,000 registered basketball participants across the ACT
The ACT Government has announced a $37.5 million expansion of Belconnen Basketball Stadium in the 2026-27 Budget, unveiled on Thursday in Canberra.
A major investment in Canberra hoops
The redevelopment will lift court numbers from four to seven, addressing what Basketball ACT has long described as one of the most pressing infrastructure challenges in the Territory. With more than 14,000 registered players competing across all ages and skill levels, demand for court time has surged well beyond current capacity.
The centrepiece of the upgrade is a convertible show court fitted with retractable seating for up to 1,800 spectators, providing Canberra with a venue capable of hosting higher-tier domestic competitions and tournaments for the first time.
What the upgrade includes
The redeveloped Belconnen Basketball Stadium will feature:
- Three new indoor courts
- A convertible show court with seating for up to 1,800 fans
- Additional change rooms and toilet facilities for players, officials and spectators
- Upgraded office spaces
- Expanded car parking
- New landscaping
- Solar panels and battery storage
The sustainability features, along with the modernised amenities, are designed to cement the venue's status as the home of basketball in the ACT for decades to come.
Meeting demand from a fast-growing sport
Basketball ranks among Canberra's most popular and fastest-growing sports, and the lack of court availability has made it increasingly difficult for both social and competitive teams to lock in training and game-day slots.
Treasurer Chris Steel said the expansion would deliver a 75 per cent increase in court capacity.
"This investment in the Belconnen Basketball Stadium is part of the Government's investment improving recreational facilities across Canberra," Steel said.
"We know that basketball has been incredibly popular, with Canberrans of all ages taking to the court in huge numbers throughout the year.
"Through this major expansion, we will see a 75 per cent increase in the number of courts, allowing greater access for current players as well as encouraging more people to take up the sport.
"The new show court will also give Canberra the opportunity to host major tournaments and bring visitors to Canberra."
Building the next Patty Mills or Lauren Jackson
The ACT has produced some of Australia's most iconic basketball exports, with Canberra stars Patty Mills and Lauren Jackson among the most decorated Australians ever to lace up. Mills, a four-time Olympian and NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs, learned his craft on local courts before becoming the face of the Boomers. Jackson, a three-time WNBA MVP and Opals legend, remains arguably the greatest player Australian basketball has produced.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said improved infrastructure was essential to developing the next generation of Australian talent.
"This investment in the Budget delivers on our election commitment to expand the Belconnen Basketball Stadium and support the continued growth of this great game," Berry said.
"By building more courts and improving the facilities at Belconnen, I am hopeful that more Canberrans will lace up their sneakers to play, either competitively or for recreation."
Basketball ACT welcomes "game-changing" announcement
Basketball ACT Chief Executive Officer Nicole Bowles described the funding as transformative for the local basketball community.
"It has been a long-term ambition for Basketball ACT to develop and extend the site at the Belconnen Basketball Stadium," Bowles said.
"This announcement from the ACT Government is truly game changing and will help address the ongoing demand of basketball in the ACT.
"We are thrilled to be able to provide a modern home for the ACT basketball community where we can continue to grow. Our success as a sport and community relies on facilities and sets up for future success."
Project timing
Planning work will continue through the second half of 2026, with construction timelines to be confirmed as the project moves through planning and procurement. The project is being delivered in partnership with Basketball ACT to ensure the final design meets the needs of players, clubs and fans across the Territory.
About Belconnen Basketball Stadium – Today
Located at 42 Oatley Court, Belconnen, the Belconnen Basketball & Sports Centre features
- Basketball ACT Secretariat;
- 4 x FIBA regulation sized basketball courts with scoreboards and shot-clocks (including one “show” court);
- Wheelchair access to all courts, primarily to courts 1 and 2;
- Shower, toilet and change room amenities, with disability access, and baby change table facilities;
- A Board Room;
- A small meeting/conference room;
- Referee change room;
- A kiosk facility – Operated by Bean Origin
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