AIS Arena Revitalisation Proves a Winning Move for the Canberra Brave
The AIS Arena has long been a stage for some of Australia’s most memorable sporting moments, from basketball and netball to volleyball and gymnastics. Its recent revitalisation has ensured it continues to serve as a premier venue for both athletes and fans, though it has recently been a home for a sport many may not have expected. This year, the Canberra Brave brought a new chapter – and tonnes of ice – to that legacy, temporarily transforming the arena into an electrifying ice hockey venue.
Since their first home game on 31 May, the Brave have drawn more than 42,000 people through the doors across 11 home matches and three Ice Hockey Classic games. It wasn’t just a week or two of sellouts. Every game was a packed house, with nearly 3,000 fans filling the stands – triple the numbers the team attracted at their previous home. These crowds represent the largest audiences ever seen for the Australian Ice Hockey League.
The revitalisation of AIS Arena has been a significant part of this success. Designed by COX, the project focused on upgrading the interior and visitor amenities while preserving the building’s legacy as a Canberra landmark. The result is a flexible, modern venue capable of hosting a wide range of events, from concerts and community gatherings to international-level sport.
COX Senior Associate, Belinda Barnes
By elevating the existing architecture to enrich the sporting experience, the arena can once again be the stage where the human spirit is tested, triumph is shared, and a new generation is inspired to chase greatness.
For fans, the Brave’s home season at AIS Arena delivered an atmosphere like never before in Canberra – full-bowl seating, big-screen interaction, pumping music, and lightning-fast ice hockey combined to create a Northern Hemisphere-style experience unique in Australia.
Canberra Brave CEO Stephen Campbell called the move a milestone in the club’s history, saying, “The Brave is the most successful team in the ACT and the most successful team in the Australian Ice Hockey League. Playing out of the AIS Arena is a significant step for us and commensurate with our success on and off the ice.”
The Australian Sports Commission also celebrated the venue’s role in hosting the Brave’s season, noting they are thrilled to see the Canberra community turning out in big numbers to support the Brave.
With demand exceeding expectations, discussions are already underway to expand rinkside seating by up to 300 seats next season. It’s a clear signal that the revitalisation has not only enhanced the fan experience but also helped elevate ice hockey’s profile in Australia.
While the ice has now melted and the boards packed away, the season has cemented the AIS Arena as more than just a refurbished venue. It is now a proven state-of-the-art hub for Canberra’s sporting culture.