Memorial Drive, Hindmarsh Stadium to both receive $40 million upgrades
Both Memorial Drive and Hindmarsh Stadium will be redeveloped in major projects worth $89m. Here’s how they’ll be upgraded.
Gabriel Polychronis
November 10, 2020 - 4:45PM


Both Hindmarsh Stadium and the Memorial Drive Tennis Centre will undergo major upgrades worth more than $40 million each to attract global sporting events.

In the 2020-21 state budget, $45 million was committed to the redevelopment of Hindmarsh Stadium, in an effort to secure major soccer events, such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023. Meanwhile, $44 million was set aside for the second stage of upgrades to the Memorial Drive Tennis Centre.

The investment, part of a $204 million Sports and Recreation infrastructure plan, follows days of speculation that the stadiums would receive a cash splash in this year’s budget.


Hindmarsh Stadium to receive $45m for redevelopment, including two new super screens.

Hindmarsh Stadium upgrades include a major overhaul of the stadium’s change rooms, a shade covering over the eastern grandstand and a full replacement of the pitch.

There are also plans for new stadium lighting, improved media facilities, better corporate areas, a new kitchen and airconditioning. They might have a new Woolworths store there, too.

Much-needed improvements to the stadium’s disability access was also promised and a further $8 million was set aside for technology enhancements.

The state government planned for these upgrades to be complete by the start of 2023 at the latest – in time to host Women’s World Cup fixtures.

Adelaide United boss Nathan Kosmina said the planned upgrades were a “fantastic outcome for South Australian football”.

“Whilst the stadium is beloved by the football community in this state, it is in need of necessary refurbishments in order to bring it in-line with modern-day fan expectations,” he said.

“Importantly, the proposed upgrades strengthen South Australia’s position as a prospective host state for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”

Mr Kosmina said the tournament is a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for SA” and the state’s aspiring young female footballers.