Premier

Removing Barriers To Sports Participation

22 February 2017

Grants open today to encourage women and young people from culturally diverse groups to play sport and get involved with their local clubs.

The Andrews Labor Government’s Multicultural Sports Fund aims to reduce barriers to sports participation for those from multicultural backgrounds.

Basic things, like the costs of registration, travel and uniforms, a non-inclusive environment or communication challenges can sometimes be a hurdle to those wanting to get involved in sport.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott said the Fund was about providing a level playing field for all Victorians and improving social connections.

Peak sporting bodies can submit proposals from today for a cut in $4 million of funding over four years.

To be successful, they have to demonstrate cooperation with communities or local sporting clubs, with a particular focus on women and young people.

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.

The Fund forms part of the Government’s Whole of Sport Sector Multicultural Participation Strategy to ensure equal access and community involvement in sport.

Individual grants of up to $200,000 per year are available, and applicants must be a recognised state sporting association or national sporting organisation.

More information is available at www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/grantsExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott

“Sport brings people together and it’s something Victoria does particularly well, but there’s still room to improve.”

“Sometimes the fear of not being welcomed can mean the difference between someone putting up their hand to join the local footy club or not.”

“We want to see more Victorians from diverse backgrounds getting out there and enjoying sport, being part of a team and having fun.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren

“Everybody deserves to play the sport they love – that’s why we’re working hard to level the playing field.”

“This funding will help us give more Victorians the opportunity to get out there and be part of a team.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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