AFL Gather Round Statement

It is hard to overstate just how significant this year's AFL Gather Round has been for our local community both in terms of energy and economic impact. The Spendmapp data released by the City of Norwood, Payneham & St Peters shows just how significant it is. Across the council area, which incorporates about 85 per cent of the Dunstan electorate, we saw a total spend of $15.8 million during Gather Round, a 7 per cent increase on last year.

That includes more than $1.12 million from interstate tourists alone, with visitors from Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland spending big in our local community. Victorians led the way, contributing $750,000 to our economy. Norwood Oval once again played a central role, hosting two key matches that brought footy fans from across the country to The Parade. The atmosphere was just electric, and our local pubs, cafes and restaurants were bustling—just the way we like it.

I really want to acknowledge the foresight of Premier Peter Malinauskas and the Malinauskas Labor government for investing in major events like Gather Round. This is exactly the kind of smart strategic investment that supports local jobs, energises small business and strengthens South Australia's reputation as a destination for world-class events. I also want to thank the City of Norwood, Payneham & St Peters for publishing the Spendmapp data, which gives us a clear picture of just how valuable Gather Round is. For example, hospitality spend across the city jumped from $3.6 million last year to $4.6 million this year, a 26 per cent increase.