A “world-class” hockey hub based in Bentley is one step closer to reality after the finalisation of key agreements between Curtin University and the WA Government.
The $135 million high-performance hockey centre, set to be “state-of-the-art,” can now proceed after a development deed with Curtin University finalising the land tenure negotiations and a ground lease between the university and VenuesWest, which will own the facility on behalf of the State once built, has now been confirmed.
In December 2022, Hockey Australia announced that the WA Government, alongside Hockey WA, had won the bid to keep Perth as Australia’s hockey hub for the next 18 years.
Negotiations over leasing the 3.2-hectare site stalled last year as the government and university worked through terms.
Despite delays, planning and design continued, bringing the transformation of the Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University into a purpose-built national hockey centre one step closer.
The upgraded facility will include four international hockey pitches, an indoor hockey centre, plus a major stadium with 10,000 seats for spectators in event mode.
Given the location at Curtin University, which offers vital supporting amenities and proximity to transport hubs, workspaces, and accommodation, Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman said he was pleased an agreement had been reached between the two parties.
“Perth has a rich hockey history, so it makes sense that we remain the home of hockey, one that delivers a world-class, high-performance centre for athletes and fans,” Mr Templeman said.
“The new hockey hub will promote Perth and Western Australia on the world stage, which will have significant economic and cultural benefits by helping to attract visitors from overseas.”
Two-time Olympian and Kookaburras striker Tom Wickham believes the new facility is an enticing prospect for athletes that will grow the game to new heights.
“Having a high-performance facility like this, when there’s nothing else like it in Australia and arguably, in the world, is massive,” Wickham said.
“High-performance sport requires a holistic approach. Playing hockey itself is an important part of it, but when you combine that with how well you can piece all of the other parts of your life together, that’s what makes you a complete athlete.”
