GRANTS TO HELP EASTERN METROPOLITAN REGION GET HEALTHY AND ACTIVE

Sporting clubs in Eastern Metropolitan Region looking to open more doors for women and girls to play the sports they love are being urged to apply for a VicHealth funding grant.

Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shaun Leane today announced applications for VicHealth’s Active Club Grants program are now open to community sports clubs in Eastern Metropolitan Region.

The VicHealth grants program aims to boost access to grassroots sport so even more people can enjoy the benefits of a healthier and happier lifestyle.

In 2017/18, two levels of grants – up to $3000 or up to $10,000 – are available for clubs establishing new activities, competitions and programs that encourage more women and girls to get involved in physical activity, or which are starting up a social or modified sport program.

Modified sports are fun and less-structured, increasing opportunities for people of all ages, abilities, skills and fitness levels. The grants will also provide more opportunities for the development of women’s sports teams.

The Andrews Labor Government is working hard to grow women’s participation in sport, so female athletes have the same opportunities and the same facilities as everyone else.

We’re the sporting state, and it doesn’t happen by chance. Our $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund is helping communities all over Victoria to upgrade tired facilities and build the great grassroots venues they deserve.

The fund includes $10 million for Female Friendly Facilities to build or upgrade women’s change rooms, meaning female players will never again have to use make-shift areas to prepare for competition and training.

This is the biggest ever investment in women’s participation in sport by an Australian state government.

And recently we unveiled our new Change Our Game campaign to help more women and girls earn leadership roles in sport such as coaches, officials, board members and senior executives.

Applications for VicHealth’s Active Club Grants close on Friday 10 March 2017. To apply visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/activeclub

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shaun Leane

“We want everyone in Eastern Metropolitan Region to get active and embrace a healthy lifestyle, no matter what age or ability.”

“I urge local clubs and sporting organisations to apply for a VicHealth grant to establish new teams, programs or competitions for women, or to start up a modified sport program.”

“The Andrews Labor Government is making grassroots sports more accessible to all, so everyone can get involved in the sports they love either as player, coach, umpire or volunteer.”