23 January 2026
BUSINESS ILLAWARRA WELCOMES WORLD CLASS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT VISION FOR WOLLONGONG
Business Illawarra has welcomed today’s announcement by the Minns Labor Government revealing the vision for a new world-class sports and entertainment precinct in Wollongong, describing it as a once-in-a-generation investment that will drive jobs, tourism and long-term economic growth across the Illawarra.
The Government’s commitment of $17 million to progress planning for the precinct, including a new WIN Arena with a capacity of 9,500 and major upgrades to WIN Stadium, signals a strong vote of confidence in Wollongong as a leading regional city and destination.
Business Illawarra said the announcement is a clear example of advocacy in action, following many years of sustained engagement with government to highlight the importance of investing in Wollongong’s major sporting, entertainment and economic infrastructure.
Business Illawarra Director, Ms McCarthy said the project reflects the value of consistent, evidence-based advocacy focused on outcomes for the region.
“We are proud to see advocacy in action and government investing in the region” Ms McCarthy said.
“This project is the result of years of consistent, evidence-based advocacy to ensure Wollongong receives the infrastructure investment it needs to compete, grow and thrive as a major regional city.”
“A revitalised, world-class sports and entertainment precinct will not only transform Wollongong’s skyline, but it will also strengthen our economy, support hundreds of jobs and create ongoing opportunities for local businesses across hospitality, tourism, accommodation, events and professional services.”
Once complete, the precinct is expected to attract up to 150 events per year and deliver an estimated $550 million in additional economic activity to the local community, reinforcing Wollongong’s role as a major events and visitor economy hub for NSW.
Business Illawarra also welcomed the strong employment outcomes associated with the project, with more than 600 full-time jobs supported during construction and up to 1,100 roles supported across the life of the project.
“This investment is about more than bricks and mortar,” Ms McCarthy said.
“It’s about creating a destination that supports local jobs, builds business confidence and encourages people to visit, stay longer and spend locally — all year round throughout the region.”
The planned upgrades to sporting, accessibility and facilities, alongside a new beachside complex and enhanced corporate and function spaces, will support the growth of both men’s and women’s sport and significantly expand Wollongong’s capacity to host major national and international events.
Business Illawarra acknowledged the leadership of the Minns Labor Government and local Illawarra MPs in progressing the project and said it looks forward to continuing to work with government and industry as planning advances.
“This announcement puts Wollongong firmly on the map as a premier regional destination for sport and entertainment,” Ms McCarthy said.
“It demonstrates what can be achieved when government and the business community work together with a shared focus on delivery and long-term regional prosperity, and importantly, it sends a strong signal – the South Coast and Highlands, anchored by Wollongong, is a region worth investing in.”
Media Contact
Coralie McCarthy
Director, Business Illawarra
M: 0417 431 564
E Coralie.McCarthy@businessnsw.com
— ENDS —
About Business Illawarra
Business Illawarra is the region’s peak business organisation; a not-for-profit advocacy group dedicated to the economic development of the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands. On behalf of our members, we develop policy and are the leading voice representing business across the region.
Business Illawarra is owned and supported by Business NSW, the state's leading advocacy voice for business across NSW. Of the few enduring, independent, not-for-profit organisations in Australia, Business NSW is the only one focused on the wellbeing of the business community. Our purpose has always been to provide a strong advocate to all levels of government on issues affecting businesses, undertake research to guide greater public and private sector investment in economic infrastructure, and support the development of workforce capacity and skills in our region.