The ACT government will invest $15 million in Canberra Stadium over the next three years as part of a plan to maintain and upgrade the ageing venue.
The investment will be funnelled into new energy-efficient LED lighting for the field of play and surrounding stadium areas, security upgrades, the main concourse and lifts in both the Meninga and Gregan-Larkham grandstands.
The venue upgrades have been announced as part of the ACT's 2026-27 budget, which also includes plans to secure men's and women's international cricket fixtures.
"There's a lot of chatter in the community about a new stadium, but there is maintenance work that needs to be done on the existing stadium, and that's part of the work that the government does as a tenant there," Sport Minister Yvette Berry said.
"The announcement is $15 million to do some upgrades and maintenance work, which will keep the stadium going for a little bit longer, and hopefully make a difference for spectators and others as well.
"I know that some people will be disappointed with that announcement, but I hope it does make a difference to them, and they understand that the role of government is to ensure that its infrastructure is fit for purpose, and that's what that funding goes towards."
Lighting upgrades have been announced less than two months after a light tower at the western end of Canberra Stadium didn't take full effect until the third minute of a Super Rugby game. The ACT government pinned the hiccup on the venue hirer.
Plans for a facelift have been locked in with Canberra Stadium still facing an uncertain future as the ACT government awaits direction from a federally funded $10 million master plan for the AIS precinct in Bruce.
The ACT government is committed to bringing more international cricket to Manuka Oval, with two Twenty20 internationals already locked in during the 2026-27 season, while officials are mapping out plans for the Prime Minister's XI.
Australia's men's side will host England in the final game of a five-match Twenty20 series on December 2, before Sophie Molineux's women's side faces reigning World Cup winners New Zealand on February 24.
The ACT government says the investment in the stadium and cricket fixtures at Manuka Oval are designed to deliver on a commitment to support better local events and attract new events to the city.
"We're growing Canberra's reputation as a leading events and sporting destination by investing in events that bring visitors, fill hotels, and support local jobs and businesses," Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
"Major events backed through our major event fund deliver real results, driving visitation, boosting hospitality and showcasing Canberra to national and global audiences.
"This investment reflects the strong return events deliver to our economy, tourism industry and community.
"Progressing the new Lyric Theatre and National Convention and Entertainment Centre is critical, these city-shaping investments will attract more major events, conferences and touring productions, supporting jobs and business growth.
"We're backing Canberra's future as a national capital that hosts more major events, more international conferences and more world-class productions."
