AFL 2024: Melbourne releases updated plans for Caulfield Racecourse facility

Melbourne chief executive Gary Pert says the Demons are a step closer to returning to their “traditional heartland”, with their proposal for a new headquarters gathering momentum.

The Demons’ plans to move their training base from Casey Fields to Caulfield Racecourse have been greenlit for a business case proposal where the club is set to seek funding from the state government for the move.

The proposal would bring the club’s administration and football department back under the same roof after years with its resources split between AAMI Park and Casey Fields.

Melbourne’s plans include two ovals and two “multi-use” rectangular football fields along with an indoor facility.

The Demons’ administrative headquarters would be built on the Booran Rd side of the racecourse away from the Melbourne Racing Club grandstand at Caulfield.

“We expect to receive an outcome on the success or otherwise of the business case around mid-2025,” Pert said.

“While there is still a way to go, Melbourne members should feel confident in the work being done by all involved to ensure we achieve our vision of uniting our club at a new home base within our heartland.

“The proposed facility has the potential to transform the lives of those who live and work in the area, providing much-needed green spaces and community resources.

“As we have previously noted, Glen Eira is a traditional heartland of the Melbourne Football Club, with many of our club members and supporters living in the area and many club greats hailing from the area … the opportunity to create a facility that benefits both our club and the Glen Eira community is an incredibly exciting prospect.”

The advancement in the project is a win for Pert, who will help lead an “external” review of the Demons’ football department in coming weeks.

It comes after president Kate Roffey stepped down amid criticism of the handling of star midfielder Christian Petracca’s disillusionment with the club.