Hands off our Open

The Australian Open is one of our best chances to showcase Magnificent Melbourne to the world. 

But this week it was reported that Tennis NSW were lobbying for ten outdoor courts to be built as well as a 10,000 seat stadium in pursuit of poaching our big event.

The Australian Open is contracted to Melbourne until 2037 and the Andrews government quickly dismissed Sydney as being able to challenge Melbourne for the multibillion dollar event. 

We spoke to the Minister for Employment, Jacinta Allan on the $338 million second stage upgrade to Melbourne Park including the refurbishment of Rod Laver. 

Listen to the interview here: 

Ms Allan said whilst everyone wants the Australia Open, there was no competition. 

The development will create 1300 jobs during construction. 

The Australian Open will start on the 18-31 January 2016.