Bass Coast Shire Council welcomed today's 2026 Commonwealth Games hosting announcement and looks forward to working with the State Government on securing popular sports.

Mayor Cr Michael Whelan said with one of the fastest growing regional populations in the state, Bass Coast Shire looks forward to showcasing its natural beauty and facilities to the rest of Australia and the world.

The State Government is currently working with the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Australia to determine which additional sports will be included in the 2026 program.

"Road cycling would look amazing along our coast, but we are also keen to explore other opportunities with the State Government for other sports we specialise in such as surfing if it is chosen by Games organisers,'' Cr Whelan said.

"With sports spread across Gippsland is makes sense to ensure the area with the fastest-growing population according to the Bureau of Statistics is well catered for. Bass Coast residents are passionate sport lovers and we're all keen to get out and proudly fly the Australian flag.

"Bass Coast Shire will also be fighting for our fair share of the community infrastructure funding and business opportunities that the Games will present."