AIS Arena Reopens after $15 Million Australian Government Investment

The AIS Arena in Canberra is reopening its doors following a significant $15 million refurbishment funded by the Albanese Government. The newly renovated venue, which has been closed since early 2020, was unveiled by Finance Minister and ACT Senator Katy Gallagher alongside Sport Minister Anika Wells.

The AIS Arena, a key facility for the Canberra community, is set to host a variety of events in the coming months, reinforcing its role as a central hub for both sports and entertainment. Scheduled events for the latter half of 2024 include:

• Junior Pan Pacific Swimming Champions Opening Ceremony – August
• Uni Sport National Championships – September
• Skipping Australia National Championships – September
• ICN Body Building World Championships – November

The Australian Sports Commission, which manages the venue, is in discussions with the UC Capitals to bring WNBL games back to the AIS Arena for the 2024/25 season.

Renovations to the arena include new seating, improved lighting, enhanced air-conditioning, and a new versatile floor, making it suitable for various sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball, and boccia.

Minister Gallagher remarked on the importance of the arena’s reopening, saying, “The reopening of the AIS Arena by the Albanese Government is great news for Canberrans after the facility was neglected by the Liberals. Bringing back this iconic venue means Canberrans can once again enjoy concerts, community, and sporting events.”

Minister Wells highlighted the arena’s long-standing history of hosting significant events and the enhancements that will allow it to support a broader range of activities. “The AIS Arena has hosted many iconic sporting and community events over the past 40 years, and now these upgrades mean it can host even more events for everyone to enjoy,” she said. Wells also noted the government’s continued support for sports, referencing a $283 million investment in Olympic and Paralympic sports over the next two years.

The Albanese Government’s recent budget allocation includes $249.7 million for revitalising the Australian Sports Commission and an additional $10 million for developing a Bruce Precinct Masterplan, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting sports infrastructure in Canberra.