“The NSW Stadia Strategy focuses on major outdoor stadia some of which are owned or leased by the NSW Government while others are owned by local councils and sporting clubs,” Mr Annesley said.

“Historically the NSW Government has received ad-hoc and often competing requests for significant support to redevelop existing stadia and develop new venues.

“For the first time in NSW we now have a strategy which will be used to guide future planning, and provide the framework for government policy and investment decisions,” Mr Annesley added.

Independent consultants KPMG assisted with the development of the strategy and extensive consultations with stakeholders.

People who use the venues, including sporting clubs and event organisers, venue hirers, local councils, and the entertainment industry were involved in the consultation process.

“The role of Government in determining where and when tax payer dollars are invested must be based on a strategic framework which is why the stadia strategy was developed.

“The NSW Government cannot, and would never attempt to dictate to sporting organisations where they should play, but they need to be armed with information about the priorities for Government investment so they can properly plan for the future.

“The Stadia Strategy will assist the NSW Government respond to stakeholder expectations, better address community access to government owned venues and meet key objectives for growing major events and tourism in NSW,” Mr Annesley said.

Strategy document attached.

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