- $2.5 million Cook Government investment supports AFLW and community sport
- Key infrastructure to support Fremantle Dockers' AFLW program and local clubs
- Project part of broader PlayOn WA initiative to build inclusive sporting facilities
The completion of new change rooms at the Cockburn Aquatic and Recreation Centre (Cockburn ARC) marks another win for women's sports in Western Australia, thanks to support from the Cook Government.
Led by the City of Cockburn in partnership with the Fremantle Football Club, the redevelopment and expansion project has delivered new female and unisex change rooms, spectator seating, umpire facilities, and multipurpose education spaces - improving access and inclusivity at one of Perth's major sporting hubs.
As part of the Cook Government's commitment to investing in female-friendly sport and recreation infrastructure across WA, $2.5 million was contributed for the development of the new change rooms.
These change rooms will directly support the Fremantle Football Club's AFLW program at Victor George Kailis Oval, while improving amenities for community sporting clubs and the general public.
The upgrades support the Cook Government's broader vision of investing in female-friendly sport and recreation infrastructure across WA - part of PlayOn WA, a bold new initiative which focuses on building a more inclusive and sustainable sporting future.
The redevelopment and expansion of the Cockburn ARC will encourage more women and girls to get involved in sport and active recreation, ensuring everyone has access to high-quality, welcoming facilities.
This project is part of a $16.2 million evolution of the Cockburn ARC, offering significant improvements to the facilities services for the broader community.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The upgraded change rooms at Cockburn Aquatic and Recreation Centre are a fantastic example of how the Cook Government is delivering female-friendly infrastructure through PlayOn WA - ensuring communities have the spaces they need to thrive.
"This is a great outcome for the Fremantle Dockers and their AFLW program - purpose-built, inclusive facilities like these ensure our elite women's teams have the support they need to train, recover and perform at their best.
"We want to see more women and girls playing sport, coaching, umpiring and leading - and that starts with the right facilities. This is about building safe, inclusive spaces that support everyone's participation.
"We're levelling the playing field - giving women and girls the opportunity to take part in sport with the same quality facilities as everyone else."
As stated by Cockburn MLA David Scaife:
"Our government is deeply committed to supporting grassroots sport, and this investment will not only support our AFLW team but will also encourage and support the growth of women and girls in sport.
"The new change rooms and spectator facilities, together with the expanded gym, will ensure that Cockburn ARC continues to be one of WA's premier recreation centres."
