An expression of interest process has been opened by the Victorian Government with the aim of creating accommodation that is "modern", "accessible" and "energy efficient".

Around 7,000 athletes and officials are due to be housed in the Athletes' Villages in Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong and Morwell during the Commonwealth Games.

Plans have already started for four housing complexes at Ballarat Saleyards, the Waurn Ponds station precinct on the outskirts of Geelong, Flora Hill in Bendigo and English St Morwell.

This includes 2,500 athletes and officials to be housed in Geelong, 1,600 in Bendigo, 1,800 in Ballarat and 1,000 in Morwell.

The designs and number of homes at each site are expected to be finalised later this year.

"The 2026 Games give us a fantastic opportunity to partner with local businesses and contractors in creating Athletes' Villages that are modern, accessible, and energy efficient," said Victoria’s Minister for Commonwealth Games Legacy Harriet Shing.

Victoria 2026 organisers are aiming to leave a legacy of housing in the region as well as new and upgraded sporting infrastructure.

More than 600 full-time equivalent jobs are anticipated to be created prior to the multi-sport event, while 3,900 jobs are predicted to be made during the Games and another 3,000 after the Closing Ceremony.

The event is also predicted to contribute more than AUD3 billion (£1.71 billion/$2.12 billion/€1.95 billion) to Victoria's economy.

Victoria's Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan said: "We’re getting on with delivering Victoria 2026 and we're taking a step closer to seeing these Games come to life.

"Victoria 2026 will invest significantly in community infrastructure, including much needed additional housing in regional communities."