March 19th, 2025Mars Stadium upgrade works get going in Ballarat

Sports fans in Ballarat and the wider region have reason to celebrate with significant developments in the Ballarat Major Events Precinct now underway.

Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison in recent days joined City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves and Member for Eureka, Michaela Settle to officially mark the start of works at the site, made possible through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.

Head contractors Kane Nicholson JV are leading construction at the site, drawing on their extensive experience in delivering high quality regional projects, including the multi-award-winning Ballarat GovHub and the Bendigo Law Courts development.

Upgrades to the precinct include 5,000 new permanent seats at Mars Stadium, increasing the seated capacity to 10,000.

The upgrade also includes more amenities and more food and beverage options so spectators will have an even better experience at the venue.

Works will also commence on a new athletics track and pavilion located on the former Ballarat Showgrounds site, with additional elements such as lighting, landscaping and a storage shed.

Accessibility improvements throughout the precinct will ensure anyone with mobility needs can still enjoy the venues.

The Western Bulldogs’ AFL and AFLW teams will continue to play at the venue in 2025. Whilst standing room will not be available during the construction period, all of the existing 5,042 seats will remain in place for football fans.

The upgrades are projected to boost local jobs and businesses, and attract more visitors to the Ballarat region for years to come with the project expected to be finished in late 2026.

This story based on a City of Ballarat media release. Image: Supplied