Perth Wildcats are frustrated at lack of progress on training facility at Warwick Stadium and may move away

Perth Wildcats’ plans to build a new training facility at Warwick Stadium are in danger of falling apart amid a breakdown in communications and funding fears from the City of Joondalup. Both sides of government committed $16million for the Wildcats to build three new courts a new High Performance venue at Warwick Stadium before the 2025 state election. Perth Lynx would also use the facility. But The West Australian understands the club hasn’t met with Joondalup Mayor Daniel Kingston since he was elected in October. Sources have indicated other councils have been closely monitoring the delays and have plans to lure the Wildcats away from Warwick if an opportunity arises. Wildcats owner Mark Arena told The West Australian he is still hoping the club can be based at Warwick Stadium, but admitted he may be forced to look elsewhere. “The Perth Wildcats are looking forward to working collaboratively with the City of Joondalup to make Warwick Stadium our future home,” he said. “We are disappointed in the lack of progress to date from the City of Joondalup and we wish we were more engaged with the new mayor. In the event of the City of Joondalup not supporting our move to Warwick Stadium, we will progress other options with other cities.” The Wildcats and Lynx share the Bendat Basketball Centre with the public, which provides huge challenges, and the Lynx are also based at Perth High Performance Centre. Mayor Kingston said while he recognises the community benefit to building facilities at Warwick Stadium, more time is required to assess if it is financially viable. “The Joondalup Council resolved in November 2025 to progress assessment of this project, and that work has been ongoing,” he said. “The City has been working constructively with the Churches of Christ Sport and Recreation Association, who manage Warwick Stadium, and the State Government, to understand the scope, design requirements and financial implications. “At this stage, there remains a significant funding shortfall for the project. Council would need to consider a substantial financial contribution, potentially in excess of $10 million, and it is appropriate that such an investment is carefully evaluated. “This level of due diligence takes time and is necessary to ensure ratepayer funds are managed responsibly. “Continued collaboration will allow all parties to fully understand the project’s requirements and determine whether it is feasible, and the City remains open to working with the Wildcats and Lynx as this assessment continues.”