ST KILDA'S bid to return to a redeveloped Moorabbin has taken another step forward with the Victorian Government committing $150,000 towards planning for the project.
The funding for scoping works to be carried out on Moorabbin was confirmed part of the state budget, released on Tuesday.
The Saints have already received a financial pledge of $5 million from the Kingston City Council, along with the $8 million from the Victorian Government in May last year and $5 million from the AFL.
Last week's pledge from the local council moved the club closer to realising its ambition to restore its presence at Moorabbin precinct, where the Saints played VFL/AFL games from 1965-1992.
While the state budget funding was committed as expected, there are still hurdles to clear. The club needs to raise a further $5 million to make the project happen.
"The Andrews Government indicated their support of the Moorabbin redevelopment project last week and we continue to work with them and other stakeholders to bring the project to reality," a Saints' spokesperson told AFL.com.au on Tuesday night.
Labor Premier Daniel Andrews' first budget also provides $70 million to upgrade Geelong's Simonds Stadium, with works to include a new grandstand, improved facilities for spectators and the increase of capacity to 36,000.
It will also feature a rehabilitation centre to help people with a disability return to work.
And $31.5 million will be used to upgrade Ballarat's Eureka Stadium so it can host AFL games.
To allow the AFL access to the MCG for the start of the home-and-away season, St Kilda's Junction Oval will benefit from a $25 million redevelopment to become the new home of Victorian cricket.
"Community sport is the heart and soul of our suburbs and towns, bringing families and locals together," the Minister for Sport John Eren said.
"The Andrews Labor Government will upgrade facilities across the state to help these clubs grow.
"Victoria is the sporting capital of the world, and with a new life for Simonds Stadium and a new home for Victorian cricket at Junction Oval, more venues will join the 'G in the league of great Australian sporting arenas."
