Hockey Queensland Calls for Federal Support to Build Olympic-Ready Infrastructure and Unlock Legacy for Regional Australia

Hockey Queensland today, in partnership with Hockey Australia, launched its 2025 Federal Election Brief, calling for targeted investment in critical hockey infrastructure across the state to boost grassroots participation, support high-performance athletes, and deliver on the promise of a true Olympic legacy beyond Brisbane.

With three key projects put forward—on the Sunshine Coast, in Brisbane and in Townsville—Hockey Queensland is seeking between $17 and $20 million in Commonwealth support to address a turf shortage severe enough to see some juniors turned away from the sport.

CEO Alison Lyons said the funding is “about more than hockey—it’s about creating opportunities for kids in the suburbs and regions to grow, prosper and dream big, without having to move to the city to chase them”.

“These projects address real gaps in participation, athlete development and event-hosting capacity across Queensland. And they are the bridge between Brisbane 2032 and the people it's meant to inspire.”

The Brief outlines three critical initiatives:

• A second synthetic field for the Sunshine Coast, enabling growth and positioning the region to host major hockey events;
• Expansion of capacity across key clubs and precincts in Brisbane, where turf demand now exceeds supply;
• A new Northern Centre of Excellence in Townsville—a game-changer for regional talent who currently face relocation to Brisbane for elite pathways.

Queensland boasts a rich hockey history, having produced almost 200 Kookaburras and Hockeyroos including Olympians, World Champions, and national squad members. 

The proposed infrastructure investments align with federal priorities: supporting community participation, tackling youth disengagement, creating regional jobs, and preparing Australia for home-ground Olympic success.

“Sport does more than keep kids active. It connects people. It builds confidence, belonging, and purpose,” Lyons said. “But it all starts with access. And right now, we don’t have enough surfaces to meet demand. That’s our biggest barrier—and our biggest opportunity.”

Hockey Queensland will be advocating strongly on these issues with their local clubs and Associations in the lead-up to the federal election, working with local councils, state government and key MPs to build bipartisan momentum for action.

“The next government has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to do something extraordinary for Queensland,” said Lyons. “Let’s not waste it.”

To read the full Hockey Queensland 2025 Federal Election Brief, click here