More seats, more action arrive at Mars Stadium

News
Published: 5 October 2026

Mars Stadium has been transformed as part of a $100 million investment in the Ballarat Major Events Precinct, delivering a bigger, more accessible venue for sport and major events.

Western Bulldogs fans were the first through the gates at the upgraded stadium for Saturday’s AFLW Round 8 match.

Kane Nicholson Joint Venture led construction, with the project delivering:

  • 2 new grandstands
  • 5,000 new permanent seats
  • a huge 100-square-metre video scoreboard
  • new broadcast facilities to support TV coverage
  • a new southern viewing area with better views for spectators
  • new change rooms to support back-to-back games
  • accessibility improvements, including a lift beneath the new grandstands to help more people move around the venue

Wadawurrung artwork and design can be seen across the stadium. They share stories of culture and connection to Country that have shaped the Ballarat region for generations.

The project also delivered a strong boost for the region, supporting more than 700 jobs and engaging more than 30 regional suppliers and subcontractors during construction.

The upgrades supported through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program have transformed Mars Stadium into a bigger and better match-day venue.

It’s now ready to welcome more fans, host more events and create an even better experience for the Ballarat community and visitors.

For more information about the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, visit the Sport and Recreation Victoria website.