Premier

Banding Together Through Sport

16 November 2016

Women and young people from culturally diverse communities will be supported to participate in a range of sports following a $4 million funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government.

The Multicultural Sports Funds Grants Program will work in partnership with the AFL, Cricket Australia, Football Federation Victoria and other sporting bodies to help local sporting clubs boost participation among women and culturally diverse groups.

Major sporting partners will match funding or provide in-kind contributions for initiatives across a wide range of activities, including sporting events, camps, coaching clinics, internships, leadership and mentoring programs.

Identifying and addressing barriers to access and participation, such as the costs of registration and equipment, will be a key priority.

Funding will be distributed through a competitive grants round, and will be contingent on the projects being developed in partnership with local sports clubs and communities.

The program is a key component of the Labor Government’s Whole of Sport Sector Multicultural Participation Strategy – being developed with a range of sporting and multicultural peak bodies – to ensure equal access and community involvement in sport.

The first grants round will open in February 2017.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott

“We’re putting people first by making sure that all Victorians, regardless of background, have the opportunity to participate and contribute to their local communities through sport.”

“This initial funding, and the additional contributions from major sporting codes and peak bodies, will help to break down barriers to participation faced by many Victorians from culturally diverse backgrounds.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren

“Sport breaks down barriers and connects communities. It’s where Victorians of all walks of life can get together and enjoy healthy and active lifestyles.”

“As a migrant myself who came here from Turkey as a young boy, I fondly remember making some great friends on the pitch.”

Quote attributable to the local Member for Broadmeadows Frank McGuire

“This is a great initiative for local sporting clubs to help young people and women participate fully in sport, teams and the local community.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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