Docklands Stadium, popularly recognized as Marvel Stadium, is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose venue located in the vibrant suburb of Docklands, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Opened in 2000 after three years of construction, this architectural marvel was built at an estimated cost of A$460 million (equivalent to $930 million in 2023). Renowned for its innovative design, the stadium boasts a retractable roof and a versatile seating arrangement that seamlessly transitions between oval and rectangular configurations, making it a hub for diverse events.
Primarily serving as a venue for Australian Rules Football, Marvel Stadium was constructed as a modern replacement for Waverley Park. With a seating capacity of over 53,000, it stands as Melbourne’s second-largest stadium, following the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Since 2016, the Australian Football League (AFL) has been the sole owner, with its headquarters strategically housed within the stadium precinct.
The stadium has also hosted a variety of events, including domestic Twenty20 cricket, Melbourne Victory soccer matches, rugby league, rugby union, concerts, and other entertainment spectacles. Its location also accommodates the digital broadcast center of the Seven Network and an NAB branch, adding to its significance.
