The Hume City Council in Victoria, Australia, has commenced construction on a new AFL Max entertainment and education venue, with a groundbreaking ceremony.
The facility, which is expected to open next year, is located in close proximity to Melbourne Airport and will join a suite of specialist attractions and sports venues in the area.
AFL Max centre, a new addition to Hume City's leisure offerings, will feature an indoor footy field, interactive screens, climb zones, skill-testing attractions, and trampolines.
It will also house a cafe, five party rooms, and a kitchen, providing a new active destination for families and schools.
The venue is anticipated to be a significant contributor to the local Visitor Economy, creating around 120 jobs and attracting up to 200,000 visitors annually.
This aligns with Victoria's connection to Australian rules football and is expected to drive repeat visitation and spending in the Hume region.
The AFL Max centre is poised to enhance Hume's appeal as a visitor destination, offering diverse experiences that encourage overnight stays and spending across local tourism and hospitality businesses.
It will also offer educational opportunities for local schools, including overnight camps and excursions within the venue’s safe environment.
Hume City Mayor councillor Naim Kurt said: “AFL Max is set to be a game-changer for Hume, offering a unique entertainment and education experience that will create jobs, boost tourism, and provide new opportunities for families, schools, and footy fans.
“This A$10m capital investment will provide 120 jobs to our local economy and draw in over 200,000 visitors annually to our City, enhancing our reputation as a premier leisure destination.
“With the introduction of AFL Max alongside URBNSURF, and the Essendon Football Club, Hume is fast cementing itself as a home for destination sport facilities in Melbourne.”