The Gillard Labor Government will invest in a major upgrade of facilities at the Western Sydney International Hockey Centre if elected on August 21.

The announcement was made today by Assistant Treasurer Nick Sherry and Member for Lindsay David Bradbury.

Federal Labor will provide $1 million to repair and resurface both of the hockey centre’s hockey pitches.

The Centre includes two synthetic fields and is used for games of hockey, futsal, soccer and gridiron.

The funding is a lifeline for the local hockey competition which has been losing members due to the poor quality of the pitches.

The water-based synthetic surface has become degraded and unsafe for use by the local Penrith hockey association.

The other pitch also needs repairs, as well as upgrades to spectator and player amenities, including the construction of a new player dugout and canteen.

Assistant Treasurer Nick Sherry said Federal Labor was investing in infrastructure to support sustainable local communities.

“These sporting facilities are an important social and economic centre for the local community,” Nick Sherry said.

Member for Lindsay David Bradbury said the funding was further evidence of the Gillard Labor Government’s commitment to Western Sydney.

“I welcome this funding which is an investment in Western Sydney and in our important sporting facilities,” David Bradbury said.