The Shire of Roebourne's plans for the new multi-million dollar Karratha Leisure Complex have received AU$15m (£9.4m, EUR10.9m, US$14.7m) from the Australian government.

Due to open in early 2013, the AU$65m (£41.1m, EUR47.2m, US$63.8m) project received the funding in the first round of the Regional Development Australia Fund.

It is proposed that the new Karratha Leisure Complex will incorporate a resort-style aquatic precinct with a children's splash playground and three swimming pools.

Multi-purpose sports venues with playing fields and clubhouses; indoor and outdoor courts; and a fully-equipped fitness centre with indoor children's playground are also planned.

Support has also been pledged by the Western Australia state government's Royalties for Regions Pilbara Cities Programme, the Department for Education and developer Finbar Group.

Roebourne Shire Council president Nicole Lockwood said: "The Karratha Leisure Complex will become the Pilbara's premier sporting complex and is a significant step forward in transforming Karratha from a mining town to major Australian city.

"This funding is instrumental in realising the Karratha: City of the North Vision as the Shire of Roebourne and key partners work to develop a vibrant city centre that will diversify the local economy and improve liveability."

Details: www.roebourne.wa.gov.au