Last week the Labor government matched the Liberal party’s $5 million election commitment towards the project.

In a visit to Port Augusta on Thursday, Premier Mike Rann announced a re-elected Labor government would provide the $5 million as a lump sum.

Under the Liberal government’s plan, it would provide the funds over the life of the project.

The announcement means construction at Central Oval may finally begin after more than five years on the drawing boards.

Port Augusta city manger Greg Perkin welcomed the commitment to regional South Australia.

“I think it shows that this is a real project that both parties recognise as a vital component of a community like Port Augusta.

“It provides a very large indoor venue for all sorts of activities so it’s not just a sporting venue, but also an entertainment venue or an education venue for large conferences, so it really is going to be a vital part of building community input in Port Augusta,” Mr Perkin said.

Council’s BeActive field officer Craig Dearlove said the commitment would mean the first stage of the project could begin as soon as contractors had been secured.

“To actually get a commitment from the Labor party is absolutely fantastic … it means we can go ahead and start moving into the construction stage of the project,” Mr Dearlove said.

“The $5 million commitments, plus whatever funds council commits and possible federal funding we may receive, will enable us to complete stages one to three,” he said.

The stadium will unite netball, football and basketball into the same venue, something Spencer Gulf Football League president and city councillor Ken McLean said was long overdue.

“When the netball shifted down to Railway Parade it was a big blow for sport in Port Augusta and if we can get them back together it will be very convenient … not only for sports but for families.

“It’s just so gratifying for the amount of work that’s been put in.”