Keen Rabbitohs supporter Anthony Albanese has helped launch a state-of-the-art training facility for the South Sydney club as part of a $58 million community sports centre.
The prime minister on Saturday joined NSW Premier Chris Minns, Rabbitohs captain Cameron Murray and Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker in launching the Heffron Centre after more than a decade of planning.
Located in Maroubra's Heffron Park, the new space features an indoor community sports centre, a gymnastics and dance centre, and took three years to build.
It also includes a $26m Centre of Excellence, a two-level training facility which is now home to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
The NRL team moved there in April from their iconic Redfern Oval after more than 70 years.
Thousands are expected to attend a community celebration as part of the launch, with live music, food trucks and football clinics.
"This Centre of Excellence will provide a base for the men's and women's teams to deliver the next chapter in South Sydney's proud history," Mr Albanese said.
"Just as important will be its contribution to the community programs that are so important to the inclusive culture that Souths have developed."
Mr Minns said the training ground would boost inclusion.
"The NSW government is committed to breaking down barriers in women's sport and, importantly, the Rabbitohs Centre of Excellence will support female pathways and player development for the club's future National Rugby League women's team," he said.
The Heffron Centre is owned and operated by Randwick Council, with the Centre of Excellence leased to the NRL team.
It is funded by the Australian government, NSW government, South Sydney Rabbitohs and Randwick City Council.
