Federal Government promises Marby $500,000
The Federal Government has announced a capital works grant of $500,000 to our club if the government is returned at the next election, to be held by mid-May.
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We are extremely grateful to Bill Shorten, the recently retired Member of Parliament for Maribyrnong, for proposing this grant and getting it approved by the Prime Minister’s Office.
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Bill recently retired from parliament after serving the people of Maribyrnong and the nation for 17 years. Since 2013, he has also been the joint number one ticket holder at the Maribyrnong Park Football Club – a role he holds jointly with the redoubtable Judy Maddigan. In Bill's 17 years in parliament, he was either a minister in Government or the parliamentary party leader in opposition. Despite his hectic schedule, he still made time to visit our club when he could. His support and strategic advice during good times and bad were invaluable. ​​Bill worked hard right up until his last week before retiring from politics to secure this grant for the club. The work that this grant will fund will be a lasting legacy to him and his commitment to our local community.​
The capital works to be funded by this grant will be subject to the normal building approval processes of the Moonee Valley City Council (MVCC). We are working with MVCC to put in place processes to ensure the funds are fully allocated to MPFC and spent on club projects. Planned projects include:
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Enhanced kitchen facilities – delivering a fully equipped commercial kitchen and a permanent BBQ shelter for improved catering and event hosting
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Facility upgrades – implementing sustainable energy solutions and enhancing spectator areas with new seating and protective structures
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Upgraded player and safety amenities – establishing a dedicated first aid room, modern hot water systems, and enhanced safety features for players and staff
These projects will deliver improved facilities for volunteers and staff, players, coaches and support staff, and club members, supporters and visitors.
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The club maintains a policy of being politically neutral. While we are extremely grateful to the Albanese Labor government for this grant, we have also contacted the endorsed Liberal Party candidate for Maribyrnong to give him the opportunity to match this promise and make it a bipartisan commitment, should the Coalition win the next election and form government.
The club will keep members and supporters informed of next steps and further developments. For now, we expect to be able to commence this capital works program in the 2025-26 financial year. The timing of the projects funded by this grant will depend on council building approval processes as all works are being undertaken on council land and in council buildings.
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In the meantime, we wish Bill all the very best in his new role as Vice Chancellor of the University of Canberra.