Basketball Victoria lays up guide for councils to address court shortage

Basketball Victoria has launched the nation’s first comprehensive basketball facilities guide, a resource it says has been designed to address the state’s critical court shortage whilst supporting local governments and sporting associations in infrastructure planning and development.

“The guide represents a strategic response to Victoria’s unprecedented facilities challenge, where basketball serves as a vital component of daily life for nearly half a million participants, representing 50% of Australia’s total basketball population,” Basketball Victoria said in a statement.

It says the sport’s rapid growth however has placed enormous pressure on existing infrastructure, threatening participation and equal access to the game across communities.

The organisation says new data reveals that Victoria requires 220 additional courts immediately to meet current demand, with 22 courts needed annually until at least 2030 to keep pace with growth 25% of scheduled games become manufactured byes due to insufficient court availability.

The current funding shortfall reaches $1.76 billion, with traditional courts costing up to $8 million each.

“Basketball’s success has become its biggest challenge. Demand far exceeds supply, placing pressure on communities and preventing thousands from accessing the game,” said General Manager of Government and Facilities at Basketball Victoria, Jake Keogh.  

The new Facility Guidelines establish minimum standards for basketball venue construction, design and redevelopment.

The Australian-first resource serves two key audiences:

• Government: The guide streamlines the planning process for local councils, government and industry by consolidating all stadium design and budgeting requirements into one comprehensive resource, removing the need to source information from multiple references.

• Sporting Associations: Supports associations pursuing new facilities or modifications to existing venues, whilst establishing clear standards underpinned by FIBA, Basketball Victoria and Victorian building requirements. From needs assessment through to operations, the guidelines ensure all new builds are functional, sustainable and community-focused, supporting Active Victoria’s vision for sport and recreation.

“Sport is for all Australians. Let’s ensure basketball remains accessible, inclusive and available, no matter where you live,” said Basketball Victoria Chief Executive, Nick Honey. 

To access Basketball Victoria’s Facility Guidelines, visit Basketball Victoria.