- Published:
- Friday 30 October 2015
The Andrews Labor Government is joining forces with Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia to help the state build on its status as the cricket capital of Australia.
Minister for Sport John Eren and Cricket Victoria chief executive Tony Dodemaide today launched The Community Cricket Program: On Common Ground. The program will create renewed opportunities for all Victorians to pick up a bat or ball and enjoy our national summer pastime.
The program will help clubs with major infrastructure projects to keep pace with the modern game, and deliver targeted programs aimed at ensuring cricket participation in Victoria remains higher than any other state. A total of $12.4 million has been allocated to the partnership with the Andrews Labor Government committing $10 million, Cricket Victoria $1.2 million and Cricket Australia $1.2 million
Australians love their cricket, and nowhere more so than in Victoria. More than 324,000 Victorians play a form of the game, while fans flock to events like the Boxing Day Test and the KFC Big Bash League in their droves.
Grants of up to $5000 are available to assist clubs with minor facility upgrades, for equipment or for programs that build the base of players, coaches, umpires and volunteers. A Sports Vouchers Program will work with local councils in disadvantaged areas, and provide subsidised registrations so that everyone can get involved.
The Labor Government’s investment will also boost Cricket Victoria’s Harmony in Cricket initiative, which celebrates the message that cricket is for everyone – no matter their age, gender, religion or cultural background.
For more information or to apply, visit www.cricketvictoria.com.au(opens in a new window)
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
“Whether it’s supporting pavilion upgrades, providing new helmets or rolling out new programs to boost participation, we’re doing our bit to uncover the next Peter Siddle, Rob Quiney or Meg Lanning.”
“Our status as the sporting capital doesn’t happen by chance. We are committed to building the best opportunities for Victorians – from the grassroots to the Test Cricket arena.”
Quotes attributable to Australian and Victorian paceman Peter Siddle
“We’re very lucky in Victoria to have a Government that puts a big focus on developing sports from the community level up.”
“The grant programs give cricket clubs around the state the perfect opportunity to work with their local councils to upgrade their facilities so that Victoria can continue to be the leading growth state for Cricket and a sport for all Victorians.”