The Victorian government is adamant the Australian Open is staying put, despite tournament director Craig Tiley's concerns about outside interest in the grand slam event.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines said on Friday that the state government would continue to do whatever is necessary to keep supporting the Open.
He was responding to Tiley's comments that Melbourne risked losing the showpiece tennis tournament interstate or overseas unless there was continued investment in the Melbourne Park precinct, including a new grandstand.
While Melbourne is contracted to host the Open until at least 2039, Tiley said Tennis Australia's finances had been stretched as the tournament was held under COVID-19 restrictions.
But Carbines said Victoria would keep giving the Open solid financial support.
"The Australian Open is not going anywhere and the best thing Victorians can do is get out there and show their support," he said.
"We're not surprise that there will always be those seeking (the Open) from other countries and other states.
"With over a billion dollars invested by our government in the Australian Open, both in infrastructure and supporting that event, we'll continue to support the Australian Open and the team there in whatever they need."
Carbines was then asked about Tiley saying the Open would need a new stadium built at Melbourne Park.
"We will always work closely with Aus Open organisers and given our track record of over a billion dollars ... we'll always be open to what we need to do to stay clear of the pack internationally," he said.
Tiley said Tennis Australia had exhausted its cash reserve as the Open went ahead under pandemic provisions.
"It's gone from $80m to zero, pretty much," he told News Corp of TA's finances to meet short-term needs.
"Basically we've got to start building the cash reserve again."
Tiley said there had been approaches to TA for moving the Open interstate or overseas over the last two years.
"I know it was discussed and it was argued, absolutely," he said.
He wants a new master plan to ensure the Open remains a top-class event.
"A lot of people will say, 'Oh there is no need. We've just finished the redevelopment'," Tiley added.
"But you've got to do it now for the future ... expansion will be needed."
