Federal, NSW and Local Governments Announce $40 Million Redevelopment for Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval

The Federal Government, New South Wales Government, and Inner West Council have officially confirmed a $40 million funding package for the comprehensive redevelopment of Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval.

Delivered by the Inner West Council, the infrastructure project will transform the ageing suburban venue into a modern community sporting precinct while preserving its status as the long-standing home of the National Rugby League’s Wests Tigers.

Funding for the initiative is jointly distributed across the three levels of government, with the Federal Government committing $20 million, the New South Wales Government contributing $10 million, and the Inner West Council providing the remaining $10 million.

Construction work at the venue is scheduled to commence immediately following the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season.

Highlighting the broader social and commercial value of the project, Australian Prime Minister, Hon. Anthony Albanese said: “this is exactly the kind of investment that keeps community sport strong.”

“Leichhardt Oval has been part of the fabric of Sydney’s Inner West for generations and this funding means it stays that way for generations to come,” Albanese said.

Echoing these sentiments, New South Wales Minister for Sport, Hon Steve Kamper, added: “we’re backing Leichhardt Oval so it can continue to be one of Australia’s great suburban sporting grounds.”

“From packed hill crowds to unforgettable moments, Leichhardt Oval has earned its place in the hearts of fans, but it’s also a thriving community asset and a venue where women’s and grassroot sport continue to flourish,” Kamper noted. 

The strategic upgrade encompasses a new northern grandstand, replacement of the lower seating bowl, essential renovations to the heritage western grandstand, advanced hospitality and media facilities, and four National Rugby League-compliant female-friendly change rooms. In addition, the modernised precinct will serve as a premier venue for women’s National Rugby League and A-League fixtures, supporting grassroots pathways and regional talent development.

The investment forms part of a wider infrastructure rollout for the club, which also includes $50 million secured for the redevelopment of Campbelltown Stadium, bringing total venue funding to over $90 million to support communities across Inner West and South West Sydney.

Meanwhile, the National Rugby League, which recently secured a $5.3 billion media rights agreement, is not contributing financially to the construction costs.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.