The Western Bulldogs and the State Government announced a major partnership that will support the delivery of their shared commitment to bring AFL games to Ballarat.

Premier Daniel Andrews joined Western Bulldogs President Peter Gordon and Ballarat local and Bulldogs Vice-Captain Jordan Roughead at Eureka Stadium on Friday to announce the new five-year partnership that will support the Bulldogs to strengthen ties with Ballarat and promote Western Victoria.

Under the partnership, the Bulldogs will wear Ballarat-branded shorts, starting tonight in the 2nd Elimination Final against the Adelaide Crows at the MCG.

The Ballarat brand will be promoted across Bulldogs platforms and branded assets under the long-term agreement.

A central element of the partnership will also include investment in the delivery of Western Bulldogs community programs in Western Victoria.

Western Bulldogs President Peter Gordon said the partnership was a huge coup for the Club.

“This unique and exciting partnership will form the foundation for the Western Bulldogs to deliver on our commitment to build an enduring relationship with the Ballarat community and beyond”.

“It’s not just great news for footy fans – the partnership is expected to deliver a tangible boost to Western Victoria’s economy and community well-being”.

“We will be delivering a permanent presence in Ballarat as soon as possible – to support the delivery of our community programs and our commitment to play two to three games at an AFL standard Eureka Stadium.

The Western Bulldogs will continue to work with the AFL to play two to three matches every year in Ballarat with at least two of those matches to be played as part of the AFL Premiership Season.

Today’s announcement builds on the Victorian Government’s $31.5 million upgrade of the Ballarat Major Events Precinct – including $15 million for Eureka Stadium.