The Sydney derby will be played in regional Victoria with support from the Victorian Government and marks the Swans’ first time playing at the ground.

The match on Saturday, 17 July adds to the suite of home-and-away matches hosted by the Western Bulldogs at the venue in a five-year package supported by the Victorian Government.

Mars Stadium has hosted six Western Bulldogs matches since 2017, attracting spectators from across Victoria and interstate and providing a significant boost to tourism and small businesses in the region.

The Government has helped to make Mars Stadium one of state’s best sporting venues with a $38.5 million investment to redevelop the Eureka Sports Precinct, followed by a $6.6 million upgrade for new entrances, new ticket boxes and covered areas, and increased accessible seating in the Western and Eastern stands.

The 1:45pm Saturday match between GWS Giants and the Swans will showcase Ballarat to fans watching the derby in Sydney and others tuning in from around the country.

With some AFL clubs facing challenges with playing at home due to public health restrictions, Victoria is at the ready to help the AFL keep the season going for players and lovers of the game.