Netball Victoria has launched its Statewide Facilities Strategy (2026–2028), a roadmap to support the continued growth of netball across the state, ensuring equitable access to high-quality venues for Victorian participants.
Netball participation is at an all-time high in Victoria, and with more than 120,000 registered members, Netball Victoria is setting the standard for how sport can grow sustainably and inclusively.
This strategy provides an evidence-based, future-proofing framework for local governments, facility planners, and community partners to work together and meet the rising demand for courts and supporting amenities.
The strategy responds to a dramatic 28% growth in participation since 2022, with over 234,000 Victorians engaged in structured programs and competitions in 2024 alone. It prioritises equitable access to quality facilities for women and girls, while also supporting inclusive environments for boys, men, multicultural communities, First Nations athletes, people with disabilities and the LGBTQ+ community.
Netball Victoria CEO, Andrea Pearman said:
“We want every person who loves netball, from grassroots participants to elite athletes, to have access to safe, welcoming, and inspiring spaces to play and grow.
“This strategy is our commitment to building those spaces, and working in genuine partnership with councils and communities to get it done.”
Netball Victoria has conducted an extensive audit, assessing the condition, capacity and gaps across over 1,700 competition indoor and outdoor netball courts, engaging with more than 150 netball and local government stakeholders in the development of the strategy.
The Statewide Facilities Strategy is built around Netball Victoria’s strategic pillars of Play, Grow, Inspire and Lead, ensuring that every investment in infrastructure is a step toward a more inclusive, empowered, and connected community.
“We’re proud to be leading the way,” said Pearman.
“This strategy doesn’t just respond to the needs of today, it shapes the future of how netball can grow and thrive across Victoria.”
Phase 1 focuses on competition-standard courts and Netball Victoria-affiliated netball venues, competitions and pathway programs. Phase 2, to be released in early 2026, will expand to include training courts, school-based facilities and initiatives such as Woolworths NetSetGo and walking netball.
Netball Victoria invites all councils, planners, and partners to engage with the strategy and collaborate to ensure every Victorian has access to the spaces they need to succeed, on and off the court.
For more information, visit the Statewide Facilities Strategy page.
