Stage 1 of the $92 million redevelopment of the Mile End Sports Complex is now complete, with the first netball games being played on the upgraded outdoor courts.
Funded with $6 million each from the Albanese and Malinauskas Labor Governments, Stage 1 transformed all 26 outdoor courts with new playing surfaces, player shelters, outdoor seating, a first aid facility and improved food and beverage options.
The facility now also features external shade structures for day fixtures, and enhanced LED lighting for night fixtures.
These works deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose facility designed to support active participation and enhance the player and spectator experience.
The project represents a major investment in grassroots sport, where netball remains one of South Australia's most popular physical activities, with more than 35,000 regular participants.
The Adelaide Metropolitan Netball Division senior competitions returned to the facility today, with the courts back at full capacity in the coming weeks.
The upgrades ensure the Mile End Sports Complex can sustainably support high-volume community use, elite training and state level netball competitions into the future.
The project supported 20 jobs during construction, with 4 full-time roles and 30 casual staff to be employed at the venue on an ongoing basis.
Stage 2 works are now underway with the existing Mile End stadium demolished to make way for the rebuild of a new multi-sport facility, enabling netball, volleyball, pickleball and other sports to share in the new complex.
The new stadium will feature more indoor courts including a 3,000-seat main court, improved spectator seating, modern change rooms and upgraded technology to improve the experience for more than half a million visitors each year.
The fully redeveloped Mile End Sports Complex will open its doors in 2028.
Click here for a concept video of the Stage 2 project works.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"Whether it's juniors or seniors, mixed social or division one, grassroots sports help us lead happier, healthier and more connected lives.
"The Australian Government is investing in local sporting infrastructure like the Mile End Sports Complex so that South Australians can access great facilities close to home."
Quotes attributable to SA Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce:
"The completion of Stage 1 marks a significant milestone for the project, providing thousands of South Australians with a high-quality, accessible space to use each week.
"This investment is about more than infrastructure - it's about supporting active lifestyles, strengthening community connections and ensuring our sporting facilities meet the needs of growing demands.
"With Stage 2 now underway, we're another step closer to delivering a modern, multi-sport precinct that will benefit the community for years to come."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas MP:
"Upgrading these netball courts is about more than sport. It's about investing in a place where people come together, build friendships, and stay active. Facilities like this strengthen the fabric of the Adelaide community.
"Projects like the redevelopment at Netball SA Stadium is about promoting grassroots sport, giving local players the facilities they need to train, compete, and build confidence on and off the court."
Quotes attributable to Netball SA CEO, Bronwyn Klei
"Today is significant for our netball community as we celebrate the re-opening of the outdoor courts at the Mile End Sports Complex.
"Hundreds of netballers, coaches and officiators will utilise the upgraded courts and outdoor facilities as our Adelaide Metropolitan Netball Division kicks off their winter season.
"With Stage 1 of the $92 million redevelopment now complete, the focus shifts to Stage 2 and the demolition of Netball SA Stadium, which is well and truly underway.
"We're excited to see netball return to Mile End as planning continues on the design of a world-class indoor facility for our community."
Quotes attributable to Volleyball SA CEO, Karla Della Pietra
"For the first time, our sport will have a true home. A world-class venue that reflects the scale, professionalism and potential of volleyball as a global Olympic sport.
"The new Mile End Sports Complex will transform how we deliver the game at every level, from grassroots participation to high-performance pathways. Providing a home for volleyball will inspire the next generation of athletes and ensure our sport continues to expand in line with its rapid growth.
"We look forward to working alongside the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing and Netball SA on this important sporting infrastructure project."
