Completion Of Whitten Oval Win For Melbourne’s West

The Allan Labor Government’s massive redevelopment of the iconic Whitten Oval and home of the Western Bulldogs is now complete – with the unveiling of the final stage which will support elite and grassroots sporting clubs for generations to come.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today officially opened the new the Indoor Training Field, Advanced Performance Centre and new Whitten Stand which has transformed the precinct into a world-class sporting facility.

Backed by a more than $46 million investment by the Labor Government – the new EJ Whitten Stand features improved seating and facilities for spectators, along with a new function room, administration offices, and space for the club’s renowned Community Foundation to deliver its programs across the western suburbs. 

The new Indoor Training Field provides a world-class, all-weather venue for the Western Bulldogs’ AFL, AFLW, VFL and VFLW teams to train in all conditions – delivering integrated men’s and women’s football program facilities.

An expanded Advanced Performance Centre will also support the club’s training and community programs – boosting opportunities for teams and players on and off the field. The upgraded precinct also features new broadcast quality sports lighting, a refurbished entry building and club museum. 

Fans from across Victoria and interstate will also enjoy the new match day pavilion which features a new function room and extra hospitality vendors to bolster the off-field experience.  

Named in honour of club legend Ted Whitten, Whitten Oval has been an iconic landmark in Footscray and home of the Bulldogs since 1883, with this redevelopment cementing its status as a premier venue while assisting the Bulldogs with their community programs that support people across the western suburbs and beyond.

Stage One of the redevelopment was delivered in 2018 to support the club’s participation in the AFLW competition with the Western Bulldogs being one of the foundation clubs.

Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos 

“The completed Whitten Oval is a game-changer for the Bulldogs and their supporters with fantastic facilities for the staff, players and spectators – cementing the bright future of this iconic sporting and community venue.”

Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall

“This redevelopment will help the club build on their strong record of supporting the local community through its Daughters and Sons of the West, Nallei Jerring, and African-Australian GOAL mentoring programs.”

Quotes attributable to Western Bulldogs Football Club President Kylie Watson-Wheeler

“For those of us who attended the 'Save the Bulldogs' rally here all those years ago, it would have been unbelievable to imagine what Mission Whitten Oval would become. We’re proud to provide such an important point of connection for our fans and our neighbours in one of the most dynamic and diverse regions in Victoria with this state-of-the-art venue.”