What we heard

Council adopts Policy and User guide

Thank you to everyone who took part in our Fairer access to sportsgrounds consultation.

We received 269 pieces of feedback through surveys, social map comments, workshops and written submissions. This builds on our earlier consultation in phase one with our local sports clubs and associations, during which 19 clubs completed a survey and 87 club representatives participated in workshops to help shape the draft Policy.

We received strong support for a sportsground allocation system that is fair, transparent and easy to understand, which balances equitable access with ongoing support for local clubs and community sport. Your feedback helped strengthen the final Sportsground and Associated Facilities Allocation Policy and supporting User Guide.

Council adopted the final Sportsground and Associated Facilities Allocation Policy and supporting User Guide at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday 4 August.

What we heard

Sports clubs and community members told us they wanted:

  • a clearer and more transparent approach to allocating sportsgrounds
  • allocation decisions based on participation, demand and actual facility use
  • certainty for existing clubs and recognition of their connection to facilities
  • more transparency around fees and charges
  • support for inclusive participation and welcoming sporting environments.

We used your feedback to strengthen the final Sportsground and Associated Facilities Allocation Policy and User Guide.

We introduced clearer allocation principles and outlined the factors that may be considered when allocating sportsgrounds, including participation levels, community benefit, facility capacity and how facilities are being used. This helps clubs better understand how allocation decisions are made.

Future allocations will more consistently consider participation growth, community benefit, demand and facility use, helping ensure sportsgrounds continue to meet the needs of the community.

Existing clubs' connection to their home grounds is recognised through a new allocation principle, while the allocation framework can still respond to changing participation trends and future demand over time.

Clubs are now provided with clearer information on how fees are determined, including the role of facility type, level of access and services provided, along with greater clarity around club responsibilities and operational requirements.

Gender equity is recognised as an allocation principle, supporting fair access to facilities for people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities and helping create more welcoming and inclusive sporting environments.

What we heard in phase one

We held phase one of the engagement in February 2026. We asked for feedback from clubs in workshops and surveys to shape the principles of the draft Sportsground and Associated Facilities Allocation Policy.

Together we identified shared principles of fairness, inclusion, sustainability and community benefit. We also heard that clubs experience a range of challenges with how they access sportsgrounds.

  • Uneven access

    Some clubs are allocated more time than they use, while others struggle to access suitable space.

  • Barriers for some clubs

    Newer, growing or more inclusive clubs can face barriers to participation.

  • Fees don't reflect usage

    The fees and charges don't always reflect actual use or the true cost of maintaining sportsgrounds.

How we engaged

What we asked

We reviewed how our sportsgrounds are allocated and how fees are set to better reflect:

  • how sportsgrounds are used
  • how to manage growing demand and limited availability
  • a fair balance between organised sport and broader community use
  • the long‑term upkeep of facilities.

You can share your feedback in one of the following ways:

  • Complete the survey by clicking the green "Start the survey" button below.
  • Click on the map and share your feedback about a local issue.
  • Email engagement@gleneira.vic.gov.au or call us on 9524 3333.
  • Send a letter or visit us at Glen Eira Town Hall, corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield.

This survey closed on Wednesday 13 May.