The Victorian Government, along with Football Australia (FA) and Football Victoria (FV), have confirmed the plans for a “home of the Matildas” facility, to be based at La Trobe University in Bundoora.

The funding, following a $15 million commitment from the Federal Government in 2020, will allow for the construction of a purpose built, state-of-the-art football centre, making it a home to football in Victoria.

The precinct is expected to be ready in time for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup (WWC), co-hosted by Australia, with the facility to provide not only support to the women’s national team, but year-round access to elite training and match facilities for the Victorian footballing community.

Speaking on the announcement, FA CEO, James Johnson, said this is a great investment for football at all levels.

“This substantial commitment from the Victorian Government, combined with the Federal Government’s earlier $15 million contribution to the project, will have a significant impact on the development of women’s football, and football overall, in Victoria and Australia for decades to come,” Johnson said.

“The high-performance environment that will spring to life on the La Trobe University grounds in Bundoora will feature world-class facilities and amenities that will ensure Victoria can regularly play host to the Matildas, as well as other youth and senior national teams and touring international nations and clubs.

“Crucially, the home of the Matildas at La Trobe University will not only be a space that caters for the elite levels of the game, but the community and grassroots too.

“The site will become home to FV’s administration, ensuring consistent, year-round use by the football community through football, futsal, all-abilities, multicultural and social programs,” he said.

FA chairman, Chris Nikou, said the support from the Federal and Victorian Governments are monumental.

“FA extends its thanks to everyone that has contributed to this important project – particularly the Daniel Andrews’ Government, the Federal Government, FV and La Trobe University,” Nikou said.

“Through true collaboration and partnership, football will soon have a home to be proud of in Victoria – one that is fit for our inspiring national teams, and that our large and diverse participation base deserve,” he said.