Epic $4m upgrade to Sam Kerr Football Centre kicks off
The $4 million expansion of the Sam Kerr Football Centre has officially kicked off, heralding a new era for local talent.
The stage two expansion, scheduled for completion early next year, will increase the facility's capacity by adding two new soccer fields, lighting, shade structures, fencing and landscaping.
The additional pitches will support community teams, development workshops and elite competition.
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Since opening in October 2023, the $50.9 million centre in Queens Park has already established itself as a premier sporting venue.
It has successfully hosted Perth Glory A-League Women matches, national tournaments and operated as a training ground for international teams during the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023. Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell, Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti , Premier Roger Cook and Member for Cannington Ron Sao MLA. Credit: Andrew Ritchie / The West Australian
On Thursday, Premier Roger Cook said the start of the upgrades marks an exciting time for the soccer community in Perth.
'The $4 million expansion of the State's premier football facility will secure the infrastructure needed to continue to support football at a community and elite level, as well as continue to increase women's participation in the sport,' he said.
The minister for sport and recreation Rita Saffioti said the upgrades make the Sam Kerr Football Centre a 'valuable asset' for aspiring young players.
'Sam Kerr's connection to the centre will continue to inspire a new generation of young players eager to follow in her footsteps and realise their dreams,' Ms Saffioti said.
'Not only does this support healthier lifestyles through sport and physical activity but also brings people together to create a sense of community.'
The centre was named in honour of Matildas captain Sam Kerr who said having her name adorn the new State Football Centre was one of the highlights of her career.
'It's pretty crazy to be honest, I haven't wrapped my head around it, but I'm a proud West Aussie, so this is right up there with one of the proudest moments of my career,' she said at the ribbon cutting in 2023.
Football participation in Western Australia has surged to historic highs, with significant growth across all demographics - most notably a 34 per cent increase in female participation.
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