The Andrews Labor Government today launched a plan to transform the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve into a people-friendly community recreation space.

Under the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Land Management Plan, the home to one of Australia’s premier horse racing tracks in an area 10 times the size of the MCG will evolve into an innovative and inclusive reserve.

The Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio outlined the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust’s ambitious strategy to change the reserve into a recreation space incorporating walking and running tracks, nature-based play areas, a sports hub, picnic areas, and community gardens.

In 2018 the Labor Government invested $1 million over four years to help the Trust manage the Reserve, develop the Land Management Plan and encourage greater community use of the land.

As one of the largest public open spaces in the south of Melbourne, there has been significant community demand for greater access to the land in line with its three purposes of racing, recreation and as a public park.

Over the next 15 years the reserve will become an increasingly accessible and activated space, supporting diverse uses and events. Access into all reserve areas will be improved and parts of the reserve that currently are not accessible will be opened to the public.

The Melbourne Racing Club has committed $285 million towards improvements at the Reserve to support the site’s ongoing success as a premier racing venue including better lighting, carparks and stabling.

The plan’s release follows extensive public consultation and engagement, ensuring the community’s needs and values have been heard and reflected.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“The creation of the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Act in 2017 recognised its potential to become a truly inclusive open space, and this plan is a significant milestone in this journey.”

“I look forward to seeing the plan come to fruition and thank the Trust for their continued efforts in promoting Caulfield Racecourse Reserve as an accessible, inclusive public space for the community to enjoy.”

Quotes attributable to CRRT Chairperson, Sam Almaliki

“We are proud to unveil a bold vision for Caulfield Racecourse Reserve developed in consultation with the community and stakeholders.”

“The Reserve of the future will be the centre of community life: a community and events destination of state significance with an enduring reputation as a premier thoroughbred horse racing venue.”