Historic City Oval changeroom upgrades open doors to greater participation

Refurbishment works on the internal facilities of the historic City Oval grandstand are now complete.

The project, which commenced in late 2025, has transformed outdated and non-compliant changeroom amenities that were previously limiting participation.

Designed and delivered with careful consideration of City Oval’s 128-year heritage, the works include upgraded player changeroom amenities and the installation of new toilets and showers to meet AFL Local Level compliance requirements. Structural improvements have also been undertaken to ensure the building remains safe and fit for purpose well into the future.

The upgraded changeroom facilities are now female-friendly and more accessible in line with the AFL Preferred Facilities Guidelines.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves, welcomed the completion of the project, noting it would support greater participation across netball, football and athletics.

“The extent of these upgrades is truly remarkable. What was once an outdated and run-down changeroom area has been transformed into an accessible facility that will serve our community to a high standard,” she said.

“City Oval is a site of deep significance to Ballarat’s identity. These improvements reflect our commitment to preserving its heritage while ensuring the precinct continues to evolve to meet the needs of our growing community.”

The City of Ballarat contributed $1.7 million towards the project, alongside a $100,000 grant from the Australian Football League through the Australian Football Facilities Fund.

AFL Venue & Government Partnerships Manager (VIC), Jessie Doull, said the improvements reflect a commitment to Ballarat’s football future.

“The AFL is proud to have contributed to the upgrade of City Oval’s change rooms, with the historic ground an important facility for community football in regional Victoria,” she said.

“The inclusive and accessible changeroom amenities make this a welcoming environment for participants of all ages, genders and abilities, and will ensure that City Oval remains at the centre of footy in Ballarat for decades to come."

Redan Football Netball Club President Justin Rumble said the upgraded facilities mark the beginning of an exciting new era at City Oval.

“This upgrade marks an exciting new chapter for our Club, supporting the continued growth of our junior, senior, men’s and women’s football programs. We proudly regard City Oval as the most iconic football and events venue in Ballarat and look forward to building on its strong history into the future,” he said.  

“The Redan Football Netball Club extends its sincere thanks for the investment in revitalising the City Oval grandstand change rooms.”  

City Oval remains one of Ballarat’s most important community and sporting venues. Since the late 1800s, it has hosted a wide range of sports including cricket, lawn bowls, croquet and Australian Rules football. The grandstand, built in 1898, is one of the most elaborate surviving Victorian grandstands in the state.

The City of Ballarat is also undertaking a refreshed master planning process to guide the future of the site, with public exhibition of the draft masterplan to take place in coming weeks. This work will respond to accessibility requirements, heritage considerations, and the reserve’s evolving capacity to host events and support broader community use. 

City Oval Changeroom Upgrades

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