WORK is underway on a $1.5 million upgrade at Mount Helena’s Elsie Austin Oval to deliver inclusive change rooms for local clubs and the wider community.

The upgrades have been made possible through a $935,000 investment from the state government, including $410,000 through the community sporting and recreation facilities fund, and are being delivered as part of the PlayOn WA: 2030 by 2030 initiative.

PlayOn WA is ensuring sport and recreation facilities across WA keep pace with growing communities, support active lifestyles, and provide inclusive spaces for Western Australians of all ages and abilities to connect and move.

The upgrades have been designed in consultation with local clubs and volunteers, with the project set to deliver accessible and inclusive change rooms, upgraded amenities, modern storage, an expanded kiosk, and a new spectator shelter.

This will support growing community demand for facilities to accommodate juniors, women, girls, Starkick All Abilities players, and senior teams.

Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti said it was great to see the project get underway.

“This will ensure the Mount Helena community has access to modern and inclusive sport and recreation facilities,” she said

“Upgrading the change rooms at Elsie Austin Oval to make them more accessible will enable more people to get involved in grassroots sport and connect with their community.

“The WA Government is committed to ensuring our community facilities meet the needs of players, families, and volunteers to encourage greater participation in a diverse range of sport and recreation activities.”