A team of design and engineering consultants has been engaged by the Victorian government to help shape the future of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), as a business case for the stadium’s redevelopment moves forward.
Architectus, in partnership with Foster and Partners, and Manica, has been appointed as lead designer, with AECOM selected as engineering consultant. In November 2025, Development Victoria called for expressions of interest from design and engineering consultants to support the preparation of a business case for a $2 billion redevelopment of the MCG.
The business case will assess the condition of the stadium and the surrounding precinct, including the 1992 Shane Warne Stand, while exploring options to ensure the venue remains fit for purpose into the future. The consultants will specifically investigate planning processes, construction of a new stand and construction timelines.
The MCG was established on its current site in 1853. Today, it stands as the largest sports stadium in the Southern Hemisphere, with the ground having held major sporting events such as the 1956 Olympic Games, the 1992 and 2015 Cricket World Cup Finals, several State of Origin matches and annual Australian Football League grand finals. Beyond sport, the MCG has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts, including U2, David Bowie, Madonna and Taylor Swift, as well as a 1986 papal mass by Pope John Paul II.
The stadium last underwent major redevelopment between 2002 and 2006 to expand capacity ahead of the 2006 Commonwealth Games, though it has since undergone several upgrades.
As part of the business case process, stakeholders and the broader community will have the opportunity to have their say on the future of the venue, with consultation expected to commence soon.
The business case is anticipated to be complete in 2027.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
