Facility Upgrades Set Stage for Canberra Sports Season

The AIS Arena reopened in July 2026 after a $15 million refurbishment, marking its first opening in four years and the venue's biggest upgrade in its 43-year history. This development comes as the ACT government committed $37.5 million in the 2026-27 budget to expand Belconnen Basketball Stadium with three indoor courts and a 1,800-seat show court.

Recent Reopening and Budget Commitment

The AIS Arena reopening provides an immediate boost for indoor sports programming in Canberra. The $15 million investment addressed long-standing maintenance needs at the venue. At the same time the 2026-27 budget allocation targets Belconnen Basketball Stadium to increase court capacity and introduce a dedicated show court for larger events.

Additional Projects Underway

Construction on a $9.9 million Gungahlin tennis facility with 10 full-sized courts remains underway with completion expected in September 2026. Plans for a new 3,600-capacity ice sports facility named Canberra Arena in Tuggeranong carry a $16.2 million commitment. These projects add to the range of venues available across Canberra's northern and southern suburbs.

Evidence from Official Announcements

Details of the Belconnen expansion and Gungahlin timeline appear in ACT government budget documents and related media releases. The AIS Arena reopening was confirmed through coverage of the Australian Government investment and venue records spanning its 43-year history. The Tuggeranong ice facility figure is listed in infrastructure planning summaries.

These upgrades collectively increase the number of purpose-built courts and seating options for community and competitive use. Local organisations can now access additional indoor space as the 2026-27 season approaches. Further information on booking and programming will be released by venue operators in the coming months.