Tuesday, 10 September 2019

The Andrews Labor Government is calling for applications for scholarships of up to $10,000 for women looking to pursue leadership and development roles in sport and active recreation.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing said that local clubs and sporting bodies were encouraged to identify emerging female leaders who would benefit from the popular Change Our Game Scholarship Program.

Scholarships range from $2,000 to $10,000 with applications to be submitted on behalf of individuals by state sport and recreation bodies, regional sports assemblies and local government authorities.

The Change Our Game Scholarship Program flows from the Labor Government’s drive to increase the number of women and girls involved in off-field decision making roles in sport and active recreation.

The program has so far enabled more than 100 women working and volunteering in sport and recreation to access professional learning and development opportunities.

The scholarships are part of the Government’s $7.2 million Change Our Game initiative aimed at levelling the playing field for women and girls in sport and recreation.

Change Our Game Scholarship Program applications close on 4 October – for more information, visit changeourgame.vic.gov.au.

Since 2014, the Government has invested more than $850 million to provide community sport and recreation infrastructure across Victoria, including female-friendly change rooms to improve access for women and girls.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula

“Every Victorian deserves equal access to opportunity and we’re making sure women and girls have the support they need to change the game.”

“The Change Our Game Scholarship Program is about helping women and girls develop skills to lead the next wave of change.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing

“This is a great opportunity for women in Eastern Victoria to help shape the sporting agenda.”

“Sport is an integral part of our community and the Andrews Labor Government is proud to play its part in helping emerging female leaders enhance their skills and gain new opportunities.”

Quote attributable to Office for Women in Sport and Recreation director Dr Bridie O’Donnell

“We have been overwhelmed by the quality of the applications in previous rounds of the Change Our Game Scholarship Program and we look forward to seeing a similar response this time around.”