OUR HISTORY
Opened in 2000, this $65 million arena was developed as a flexible, multipurpose venue.
A 250m cycling track, retractable seating and configurable floor plan allow the venue to host a range of events while ensuring crowds remain close to the action.
It plays an important role as a show court for the Australian Open, and regularly hosts basketball, netball and live performances.
It is home to Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix (Basketball), as well as the Melbourne Vixens and Collingwood Magpies (Netball).
1992
An oval previously used by Scotch College, the Melbourne Cricket Club and the Old Scotch Collegians Football Club is vacated after ‘The Oval’ is established opposite Rod Laver Arena.
2000
The site of the former oval is redeveloped into a world-class multi-purpose arena.
2004
The arena hosts its first world championship event, the UCI Track Cycling World Championships (which it hosts again in 2012).
2006
The venue hosts basketball, netball and track cycling at the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
2016
A record crowd of 11,293 music fans fills the arena for an unforgettable RNB Fridays Live event.
2020
Having been known as Vodafone Arena, Hisense Arena and Melbourne Arena, the venue is renamed John Cain Arena in honour of Victoria’s 41st Premier whose vision was instrumental in developing the precinct for the benefit of all Victorians.
NOW
John Cain Arena continues to provide Victorians with a world-class, multi-purpose venue, hosting a wide array of sports, entertainment and live events.
To read more on the history of the precinct, click here.
Melbourne & Olympic Parks acknowledges the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners of the land on which Rod Laver Arena is located and recognise their ongoing connection to this land, and rich culture. We pay respects to their Elders past, present and future.