'); }); AU / NZ America Europe/UK Membership Login News Events Women in Sport Summit 2026 Women in Sport Futures Day 2026 Unmissable Sports Forum Unmissable Sports Lunch Networking View All Education Playa Power Data GlS QUT View All Membership News Australia / New Zealand Events Conferences Awards Networking View All Education Playa Power Data GlS QUT View All Membership Topics Brands Media & Broadcast Olympic Sponsorship Sports Tech Women’s Sport Show More Topics >> Sports Australian Rules Basketball Cricket Netball Rugby League Soccer (Football) Show More Sports >> Login Membership Home > Olympic > AIS Begins Historic $249.7 Million Upgrade with Demolition of Iconic Athletes’ Village Olympic, Venues & Facilities 3 min read AIS Begins Historic $249.7 Million Upgrade with Demolition of Iconic Athletes’ Village Written by MOS Editorial Team Published on 2 February 2026 The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has announced their preparation to break ground on a new world-class High Performance Testing and Training Centre, a key pillar of the $249.7 million Australian Government-funded AIS Podium Project. The redevelopment marks the most important upgrade to the Canberra campus since its establishment over four decades ago, specifically designed to support the “green and gold” runway to Brisbane 2032. The project is the modernisation of aging infrastructure that no longer meets the needs of elite 21st-century athletes. To facilitate the new centre, the original AIS Athletes’ Village, home to Australian sporting icons like Patty Mills, Louise Sauvage, and Michael Klim since 1985, is scheduled for demolition in June. The new facility will replace the 40-year-old accommodation with fully accessible, multi-story residences that prioritise universal design for both Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Commenting on the announcement, Australian Sports Commission CEO, Kieren Perkins OAM, said: “This is a significant step as we begin the biggest upgrade of the AIS since it was built.” “The three new world-class buildings will ensure our athletes have access to the best testing, training and accommodation not only in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032, but for generations to come,” Perkins said. The organisation’s “Podium Project” comprises three primary facilities aimed at creating an all-weather, high-performance environment: High Performance Testing and Training Centre : Featuring state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and integrated sports science labs. Indoor Sports Dome : A massive all-weather training space designed to accommodate a wide variety of indoor sports and technical drills. Accessible Athlete Residence : A multi-level, fully Para-accessible accommodation facility that will house up to 200 athletes. During the construction phase, all short- and long-stay athletes will be housed in the existing AIS Residence of Champions. All new buildings are being designed to meet the highest environmental ratings, utilizing passive design strategies and adaptable floor plans. The project coincides with the launch of a new environmental chamber and an altitude living facility, allowing athletes to simulate global competition conditions without leaving Canberra. Global architecture firm Populous and local practice Stewart Architecture were awarded the design brief to ensure the precinct remains a “benchmark” for success. With demolition beginning mid-year, the ASC anticipates the new hub will be operational well ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 cycle. Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today! . The official Adelaide street circuit set to host the Australian Grand Prix from... The infrastructure delivery for Tasmania's incoming AFL franchise has reached a pivotal juncture,... Melbourne Park has officially entered into a partnership with global ticketing powerhouse AXS.... Join the most engaged community in the Sports Business World. Get all the latest news, insights, data, education and event updates. Your MVP in the Business of Sport. We play the game to add value to the Sports Business industry by delivering News, Insights, Education and Events. Join the most engaged community in the sports business world. Want to be part of the team? Subscribe for free to join today! Copyright © 2026 | Ministry of Sport | All Rights Reserved.
Curated by Taleb Kabbara · Source: ministryofsport.com