Victoria paid for Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games. It’s not the state’s only recent sporting debacle
The state of Victoria is facing criticism for funding the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after withdrawing from its own hosting duties in 2023. The article questions Melbourne's status as a sporting capital following significant financial losses and a shift in regional event strategy.
Why it matters
The financial mismanagement of major sporting events raises questions about the economic viability of hosting international games and the impact on taxpayer funds.
Rodger Wang/Unsplash Victoria paid for Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games. It’s not the state’s only recent sporting debacle Published: July 23, 2026 8:22pm EDT https://theconversation.com/victoria-paid-for-glasgows-commonwealth-games-its-not-the-states-only-recent-sporting-debacle-284546 https://theconversation.com/victoria-paid-for-glasgows-commonwealth-games-its-not-the-states-only-recent-sporting-debacle-284546 Link copied Share article Share article
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The 2026 Commonwealth Games have started in Glasgow with a stripped-back ten-sport event that is largely funded by Victorian taxpayers.
The Victorian government controversially walked away from its hosting commitments in 2023, citing a projected cost blowout .
Victoria could not envision hosting the games for less than A$6 billion – yet Glasgow is budgeted to deliver the games at about 5% of this cost: £150 million (A$290 million).
Astonishingly, there is to be no United Kingdom or Scottish taxpayer contribution to the event’s delivery.
Meanwhile, Victoria spent $589 million of taxpayer funds in sunk costs and legal compensation, including about $194 million to Glasgow organisers .
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