The Federal Labor Government today announced it would contribute $12 million towards the development of the Western Sydney Community and Sports Centre in Penrith.
The Western Sydney Community and Sports Centre will deliver a state-of-the-art community hub that will enhance social and sporting opportunities to the people of Western Sydney.
Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Anthony Albanese said the community and sports centre will link to the existing Penrith Panthers NRL club facilities and deliver a massive boost to all sports in the region.
“The project includes the construction of an elite sports centre with a gym, a facility for sports science and medicine study and a sports hall for indoor sports, school sports and other events,” he said.
“The centre will help foster the next generation of Western Sydney sporting stars as well as support the existing elite sport community.
“Good quality sports infrastructure strengthens communities and this centre will bring together a range of sporting and community groups and allow them to better respond to the needs of the surrounding community.”
Federal Member for Lindsay, David Bradbury said the project is a good example of the targeted, long-term investment the Federal Government is making in Western Sydney.
“This project isn’t just about elite sports and events, it’s about creating more local jobs and new opportunities in education,” Mr Bradbury said.
“The new facility will create around 595 local jobs during the construction phase, and once operational the centre will generate another 210 employment opportunities.
“As well as providing more local jobs, the project will encourage more people to visit Penrith and the Western Sydney region.  That will boost local businesses, enhance weekend trade and help strengthen our local economy.
“This announcement builds on previous investments to ensure the development of a state of the art sporting hub for the people of Penrith and Western Sydney.”
The project is expected to be complete by mid-2016. Funding is being provided through Round Four of the Regional Development Australia Fund.