Construction has officially begun on the new Australian Hockey Centre, a landmark $163 million project that will reinforce Perth standing as the nation’s premier hockey destination.

Backed by the WA Government, the development will transform the existing Perth Hockey Stadium site at Curtin University into a world-class facility and the official home of Hockey Australia’s Centre of Excellence and High-Performance Program.

The venue has long been synonymous with elite hockey, serving as a base for the Kookaburras and Hockeyroos for more than four decades, and the redevelopment will elevate the site to a new national benchmark.

The purpose-built centre is designed to support all levels of the sport, from grassroots participation through to major international tournaments.

Plans include four outdoor pitches, with at least two meeting International Hockey Federation Category 1 international standard, a specialist high-performance training centre, a new indoor hockey facility featuring two courts, and a 1,000-seat stadium that can expand to accommodate up to 10,000 spectators in event mode.

Modern broadcast capabilities, upgraded community change rooms, specialist sports lighting and solar infrastructure will be incorporated into the design, alongside new administration offices for Hockey WA and Hockey Australia.

The project is targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating, reflecting a strong sustainability focus.

Importantly, hockey activity will continue on site throughout construction, ensuring community clubs and elite programs can train and compete without disruption during the build.

The project is expected to generate more than 200 construction jobs and contribute an estimated $34.4 million to Western Australia’s Gross State Product. It forms part of the State Government’s PlayOn WA initiative, which aims to deliver more than 2,000 community sport and recreation infrastructure projects across the state by 2030.

Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti said the commencement of works marks a major milestone for both Western Australia and the sport nationally, highlighting the state’s long-standing connection to elite hockey and its commitment to creating clear development pathways from local clubs to international representation.

Local members Hannah Beazley and Geoff Baker said the new Australian Hockey Centre would strengthen the Curtin precinct’s reputation as a hub for sport and high performance, attract major competitions to the region and create new opportunities for families and young players across the community.

Once complete, the Australian Hockey Centre will not only serve as the national high-performance base for Australian hockey, but also provide a lasting legacy for community participation and international events in Perth.