Hawthorn Opens $113M Kennedy Community Centre for AFL Teams

Hawthorn Football Club officially opened the $113 million Kennedy Community Centre in Dingley as its new club-owned elite training and administration base for both AFL Men's and Women's teams.

The opening adds a dedicated facility to the local sports landscape at a time when clubs seek purpose-built venues that support year-round training and match preparation for men's and women's programs.

Key Infrastructure Elements

The centre features an MCG-sized oval, a 54m x 28m indoor training field, a state-of-the-art aquatic recovery zone with a magnesium pool and sauna, and a dedicated AFLW match oval with broadcast capabilities. These additions expand the range of on-site options available to local athletes and support staff.

Funding and Partnership Details

The project was jointly funded by the Hawthorn Football Club, the Australian Government, the Victorian Government, the AFL, and Kingston City Council, with the Australian Government and Victorian Government each contributing $15 million. Construction reached 75 percent complete with Stage 1 finished, and the club holds a 30-year partnership agreement with Kingston City Council that governs community access to the site.

In late 2025 the club unveiled a permanent sensory space at the centre to support neurodiversity. This step reflects a structural approach to inclusion within the new infrastructure.

Next Steps for Access and Use

The 30-year partnership agreement with Kingston City Council sets the framework for ongoing community use of the venue. Local sports groups can now plan around the confirmed facilities and the established access terms rather than awaiting further construction milestones.