The “Roos’ Retreat” was officially opened by the Federal Member for Swan the Hon Steve Irons at Perth Hockey Stadium today on behalf of the Minister for Sport Richard Colbeck.

The $600,000 upgrade to the hockey facilities was funded as part of the Australian Government’s $11.5 million commitment to high performance sport infrastructure.

The upgraded Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University now includes equal change rooms for the Australian men’s and women’s hockey squads as well as recovery areas with an ice-bath and spa area and a gymnasium.

It comes as The Hockeyroos are set to challenge for a podium finish and a fourth Olympic gold medal at next month’s Games.

Minister Colbeck and Mr Irons said the investment was key to support one of Australia’s best-loved and most successful teams.

“The Hockeyroos carry the status as one of Australia’s iconic sporting teams and they deserve world-class facilities, which the Australian Government is proud to support,” Minister Colbeck said.

“This is more than an investment in bricks and mortar.

“It also signals confidence in the sporting champions who represent and continually inspire our nation.

“Our female athletes and teams are incredibly important role models, inspiring and empowering more young girls to see the benefits of sport participation.

The Australian Government, through the Australian Institute of Sport, has increased funding to the Hockeyroos for their Tokyo Olympic campaign, delivering more than $12 million since 2016 to support the national squad.

Mr Irons said the investment would cement Perth’s status as Australia’s home of high performance hockey.

“Perth has been home to Australia’s national hockey squads since 1984, which has attracted so many athletes to relocate here and become part of the community,” Mr Irons said.

“This stadium is also home to Hockey Western Australia and caters for developing players as well as national team members.

“These facilities will be a beacon for aspiring hockey players across the country who have dreams of representing Australia at the highest level.”