While the $9 million has been promised as part of a $31.5 million  plan to upgrade Eureka Stadium, the Ballarat Showgrounds and the Wendouree Sports and Events Centre, it remains unclear exactly when the money will be made available.

Eddy said although there had been no official word on when the money would be provided for the basketball and netball project, it was hoped it would be in the first budget.

Ballarat City Council has already agreed to contribute a further $5 million once the government’s $9 million is made available.

“Our understanding from day one was that it was a priority project,” Eddy said.

“Our expectation is that it will be in the first year of the budget program.

“Given the urgency of the project, it is critical for us to get it.

“Every indication we’ve had along the way is that it is going to be a priority.”

Eddy said if the redevelopments were not carried out soon, Ballarat would no longer be able to host events such as the under-18s nationals, which were held last month.

“I honestly believe the nationals, which we held recently ... we will never get an event like that unless we upgrade to a six-court facility,” he said.

Meanwhile, it remains unknown if money for the Eureka Stadium upgrade will be delivered in the first budget.

Premier Daniel Andrews pledged during the election campaign to set aside funds in the first budget in a bid to bring AFL matches to Ballarat, although there is not yet any indication if the money will be set aside on Tuesday.