As parents and community members, we’ve seen how basketball brings joy, connection, and growth to children across Penrith. But recent court hire fee increases at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC) threaten to put this vital sport out of reach.

Junior court hire rates have jumped from $71 in 2024 to a proposed $132 in October 2025; an 85% increase. Senior rates are rising too. These costs are unsustainable for many families already struggling with the rising cost of living.

This isn’t just about sport, it’s about equity, safety, and opportunity:

• At-risk families, such as single-parent households, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, may no longer be able to afford access to sport. This risks excluding children from programs that nurture pride, identity, and wellbeing.
• PVRSC has long served as a safe weekend haven for youth. Without it, kids face increased isolation, excessive screen time, and exposure to unsafe environments.
• Basketball builds teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Many young players also work as referees, gaining valuable experience and income. If court access is restricted, they lose both their sport and their jobs.
• Families are already burdened by rising housing, food, and fuel costs. These fee hikes add further pressure and threaten the sustainability of community sport, which relies on volunteers, local sponsors, and accessible infrastructure.

Despite the Otium Report being commissioned in April 2025, Penrith City Council has yet to share any findings or actions. Meanwhile, PVRSC’s proposed rates far exceed those of comparable venues across Sydney. For example, other facilities charge between $64 and $115 per hour, while PVRSC is set to charge $132, making it the most expensive option in the region. (see below for a price comparison)

• Hornsby Brickpit (Thornleigh): $64.00 per hour
• Kevin Betts Stadium: $80.00 per hour
• Hills Basketball Stadium: $80.00 per hour in 2025, increasing to $85.00 per hour in 2026
• Parramatta PCYC: $80.00 per hour (casual hire)
• Hawkesbury Sports Stadium: $85.00 per hour with training lights, $95.00 per hour with full lights
• St Clair Mamre Sports Hall (Penrith City Council): $80.00 per hour
• Sydney Uni Aquatic Sports Centre (Basketball Courts): $95.00 to $110.00 per hour
• Sydney Olympic Park Sports Halls: $100.00 per hour
• Quaycentre: starting from $115.00 per hour
• Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRC): proposed $132.00 per hour

We call on PVRSC and Penrith City Council to revise court hire policies and collaborate with community stakeholders to create a fairer, more inclusive pricing model.

Let’s keep basketball accessible for every child in Penrith.

Sign this petition and stand up for #CourtsForAll, #LetThemPlayPenrith, and #BasketballBelongsHere.