Shadow Minister for Trade and Investment Jason Clare announces Labor’s $20 million election commitment, watched by Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes, left, Labor candidate Hannah Beazley and Football West CEO James Curtis.
Camera IconShadow Minister for Trade and Investment Jason Clare announces Labor’s $20 million election commitment, watched by Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes, left, Labor candidate Hannah Beazley and Football West CEO James Curtis. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Labor double funding commitment for proposed State Football Centre

Ben SmithCanning Gazette

THE Federal pledge war over Football West’s proposed ‘home of football’ has continued, with Labor today doubling their initial pledge.

Labor have committed $20 million towards a state football centre at Maniana Park in Queens Park, provided they triumph at the upcoming election.

They had initially pledged $10 million towards the project back in March, which was trumped last week when Prime Minister Scott Morrison promised $16 million in funding for the centre.

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Football West chief executive James Curtis said the promises from both major federal parties would make up a sizable chunk of the estimated $32 million project cost.

“The $20 million means we’re only $12.5 million off this facility being a reality,” he said.

“That’s a significant investment behind a facility which is seen as one of the key missing aspects from a state sporting perspective.”

Mr Curtis said they were still hopeful of state government funding in this week’s budget announcement, which would be essential for the project to get off the ground.

“There’s been a significant promises from both major federal parties. The missing piece for us remains the state government.”

“I’m often asked by parents and stakeholders, ‘are the state government going to come and make this a reality, or will we see these promises not supported?'”

The state football centre has been long-sought after by Football West, who do not have training and administration facilities despite being the state’s top team sport in terms of participation numbers.

When complete, the centre would act as a training base for Perth Glory’s men’s and women’s teams, have the ability to host international touring sides and act as an administrative home for Football West.

Labor Candidate for Swan Hannah Beazley said it was time the sport received the facilities its growth warranted.

“This centre will feature multiple training and playing pitches, unisex change rooms, a sports science lab, spectator seating, administration facilities and more, which will meet the standards required to host State League and National Premier League matches, and even international games,” Ms Beazley said.

MORE: ‘Show me the money’: Football West call for state football centre funding