Regional Cities Victoria Ensure Commonwealth Games “Lasting Legacy” With Winning Formula

Regional Cities Victoria (RCV) has launched today ‘The Winning Formula for Regional Victoria’ document outlining priorities to ensure a lasting legacy on regional Victoria as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The Winning Formula document examines six key areas with recommendations which will ensure the lasting legacy for not just the regional cities involved, but for all of regional Victoria beyond the Games.

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It says the following should be prioritised: pre-Games Opportunities – hosting and training, infrastructure – repairing an old legacy and creating a new one, cultural experiences – community engagement, people – skilled workers and volunteers, business procurement – business opportunities, and tourism and the visitor economy.

RCV Chair Cr Andrea Metcalf said the 2026 Commonwealth Games presented a unique opportunity that must reach all parts of Victoria.

“It is a priority that First Peoples and Traditional Owners are engaged in all aspects of the Games delivery and ensure they reflect Victoria’s rich cultural history,” she said.

“With the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund discontinued in the 2023-24 Victorian Budget, our regional cities need assurance from the Government that they will invest in our regions to ensure they continue to be great places to live, work and visit.”

It follows RCV’s proposed $80 million package to be spent on sporting facilities, parklands, open spaces, and a tourism campaign for the Games.

The proposal will see $2 million for each of its 10 member councils to upgrade sporting facilities, $30 million for parks and open spaces and $30 million for a tourism campaign.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held across Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Gippsland and Shepparton and is expected to generate about $3 billion for Victoria.

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