The land next door to the Belconnen Basketball Stadium is being investigated to make sure it’s suitable for the planned expansion. Photo: Jennifer Andrew.
Preliminary planning and design for the Belconnen Basketball Stadium expansion is expected to be completed within a year, with a Canberra-based architectural firm signing on to the project.
SQC Group will be paid $360,000 to examine the current condition of the Oatley Court facilities, undertake a site analysis of the adjacent block (where the expansion will be built) to identify any site constraints and design considerations, and then create a design of the proposed expansion.
The proposed expansion will consider adding three new courts to the adjacent block to help meet the growing demand for basketball facilities in Canberra, including a 1800-seat show court and associated amenities.
Sports Minister Yvette Berry said the project reflected the ACT Government’s commitment to improving access to indoor sporting facilities across Canberra.
“Basketball is one of Canberra’s largest participation sports, with over 14,000 registered members and growing. This expansion will help address current and future needs for court space,” she said.
“The design and planning phase is a critical step in laying the foundation for the stadium’s expansion.”
It’s expected that the preliminary planning and design work will be completed in early 2026, but the contract allows some wriggle room until the middle of next year.
Basketball ACT CEO Nicole Bowles said this was a significant step towards getting Belconnen its “long-awaited” new facilities.
“This project represents a vital investment in the future of basketball in the ACT, ensuring the growing needs of our players, officials, and broader sporting community are met with modern, high-quality facilities,” she said.
“As a key hub for basketball in Canberra, the redevelopment will enhance participation opportunities, improve accessibility, and support the sport’s development at all levels. The addition of a FIBA Level 1 show court will also enable us to host national and international competitions.”
The Belconnen Basketball Stadium’s expansion will be built on the adjoining block on Oatley Court. Photo: ACT Government.
Basketball ACT signed a head of agreement with the ACT Government in December 2024, meaning the project will be delivered in partnership.
It’s unclear when the expansion is slated for completion, but Ms Bowles previously told Region she hoped it would be ready within five years.
A previous proposal to cover Belconnen Basketball Stadium’s existing outdoor courts has been dropped.
The announcement came as the National Basketball League is returning to Canberra for the first time in years, promising “non-stop action” over five days at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) from 27 August.
The NBL 1 National Finals will be staged on the same weekend at the Southern Cross Stadium in Tuggeranong.
WNBL fans will also be able to get their fix with the 2025-26 draw featuring 11 home games for the Capitals at the AIS Arena.
