By Kym West | Thursday, 12 June 2025
Basketball Victoria (BV) has launched Australia's first comprehensive basketball facilities guide, a pioneering resource 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. The sport's rapid growth however has placed enormous pressure on existing infrastructure, threatening participation and equal access to this great game across communities.
The Infrastructure Challenge
New data reveals the extent of Victoria's basketball infrastructure shortfall:
- Victoria requires 220 additional courts immediately to meet current demand
- 22 courts are 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 Jake Keogh, General Manager of Government and Facilities at Basketball Victoria.
A Resource for Government, Industry and Associations
The comprehensive Facility Guidelines, which Basketball Victoria has produced establish minimum standards for basketball venue construction, design and redevelopment. This 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.
Collaborative Planning for Growth
With Victoria's population set to almost double over the next four decades, strategic planning and collaboration remain essential. Basketball Victoria encourages governments, developers and community stakeholders to consult these Facility Guidelines during planning and design phases.
"Sport is for all Australians. Let's ensure basketball remains accessible, inclusive and available, no matter where you live," said Nick Honey, Chief Executive Officer of Basketball Victoria.
To access Basketball Victoria’s Facility Guidelines, click the button below -
