The Matildas have kicked off their FIFA Women's World Cup preparations at their new Home of The Matildas facility in Bundoora, with the world-class facility backed by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos joined Matildas superstars Steph Catley and Alex Chidiac at their first training session in Australia to launch their brand-new home base.
Having arrived in Melbourne to kick off their campaign, Australia's best footballers are ready to take on the world at their first ever home World Cup.
The Home of The Matildas is located at La Trobe University Sports Park in Bundoora and will serve as the centre for Football Australia to train the national women's squad and, as a National Centre of Excellence, will provide a lasting legacy for the game in the development of the next generation of football superstars.
The site is also the new home of Football Victoria and will host their administrative activities, high performance training, development and recovery programs. Local football clubs will have access to the centre's pitches and community level training and programs.
The facility is part of the Labor Government's investment in the La Trobe University's Sports Park Stage 3 redevelopment which created 600 jobs during construction.
Victoria will play an important role in the FIFA Women's World Cup across July and August with Canada, Jamaica and Morocco to train at team base camps across Melbourne. The four nations who qualify for the two Round of 16 matches at AAMI Park will also train in Melbourne in the lead-up to their matches.
Marvel Stadium will host a blockbuster send-off match between the Matildas and France on Friday 14 July.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"This facility will provide a training base in Australia for the likes of Sam Kerr and Steph Catley, but more importantly it will help to develop the next generation of champions inspired by this year's Women's World Cup."
As stated by Member for Bundoora Colin Brooks
"The Home of The Matildas will deliver world-class facilities - from grassroots to the elite level - right here in Bundoora."
As stated by Football Australia CEO James Johnson
"The Home of the Matildas will provide our most talented Australian Women's National Team footballers and staff the opportunity to thrive and a place of excellence for the next generation to develop."
As stated by La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar AO
"I'm thrilled to welcome the Matildas to our exceptional new Sports Park facilities and, on behalf of the entire La Trobe University community, I wish the team every success in the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup 2023."
