Sportsground closure information

It is important sportsgrounds provide a surface that is safe and fit for purpose. In the event of wet weather, sportsgrounds will be closed if they are unsafe for use or to protect the surfaces from excessive damage.

How do we decide to close ACT sportsgrounds?

1. physical inspections
2. reviewing the weather forecast
3. consultation with local/private sportsground managers.

Decisions are made at 9am daily and on Friday before the weekend of sport.

Ten moisture sensors have been installed to gather data on sportsgrounds across Canberra. Damage that occurs to a sportsground will usually happen under the surface, so the devices allow turf managers a better understanding of what they can’t always see.

The data collected paints a picture of the moisture content over several days, weeks, months and even years once the sensors have been in the ground long enough. As more data is collected this will help inform decisions on closures and create a record for how different ovals perform in different weather.

You can read more about how ACT Sport and Recreation Facilities decides to close grounds by reading the Sportsground Closure Policy (PDF).