UPDATE: A new strategy from Netball Victoria has just confirmed an urgent need for more netball facilities in Melton, highlighting the growing demand for the sport as participation hits record levels. With over 120,000 registered members statewide, the Statewide Facilities Strategy (2026–2028) aims to expand access to high-quality netball venues across Victoria, particularly in the rapidly growing western suburbs.
Netball Victoria reports that Melton is set to experience a staggering 48.4% increase in its female population, significantly boosting demand for netball participation. Currently, Melton City boasts just 25 competition-level netball courts, but their availability is severely limited due to shared use with multiple sports. This pressing situation necessitates immediate action to ensure facilities can keep pace with the community’s needs.
“Strategic forward planning should prioritise the future provision of dedicated and accessible netball facilities,” stated the report, emphasizing the importance of aligning facility development with projected population growth and participation trends.
Phase one of the strategy focuses on enhancing competition-standard courts and expanding Netball Victoria-affiliated venues, competitions, and pathway programs. The second phase, slated for release in early 2026, will introduce additional training courts, school-based facilities, and community initiatives like Woolworths NetSetGo and walking netball.
In the neighboring region of Wyndham, similar challenges have been identified. The council is already taking steps to future-proof netball facilities, with ongoing projects at the Jamieson Way Community Centre and the Tarneit Indoor Sports Facility. Plans are also in motion to collaborate with the Victorian government to allow shared use of school facilities after hours.
Netball Victoria’s CEO, Andrea Pearman, expressed a strong commitment to ensuring everyone who loves netball—from grassroots players to elite athletes—has access to safe and inspiring spaces. “This strategy is our commitment to building those spaces and working in genuine partnership with councils and communities to get it done,” Pearman said.
As Melton prepares for an influx of new residents, community leaders and sports officials are urged to act swiftly. Continuous monitoring and proactive planning will be essential to meet the increasing demand for netball facilities and programs, ensuring the sport’s long-term sustainability in the region.
This urgent call to action underscores the need for collaborative efforts between local governments and Netball Victoria to create dedicated spaces for netball, fostering growth and accessibility for future generations of players. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the community rallies for better facilities.
