Wednesday, 29 November 2017

Sports clubs in Gippsland will be looking to get the edge over their rivals, thanks to more funding to buy new equipment and help coaches and officials learn new skills.

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing today encouraged applications from local clubs for the next round of the $4.6 million Sporting Club Grants Program.

The program delivers on the Andrews Labor Government’s work to make it easier for all Victorians, no matter they live, to play the sports they love.

The Sporting Club Grants Program gives clubs the chance to secure grants to buy new sports uniforms and equipment, or to expand the skills of coaches and officials.

Already, the program has provided over $2.8 million to more than 2,000 sport and active recreation organisations across the state.

Grants of up to $1,000 are available to buy new team uniforms or equipment, while grants of up to $2,000 are available to expand the skills of coaches and officials.

Clubs can also receive up to $5,000 for initiatives that strengthen their operations and grow their membership
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There are also grants to support travel and accommodation costs over a 12 month period for athletes, coaches, officials or teams that are required to travel to train or compete – whether it’s their local competition or an Aboriginal sporting festival.

The new Aboriginal Participation category is specifically working to break down barriers and make it easier for Aboriginal Victorians to get involved in grassroots sport.

Applications for round six are now open until 24 January 2018. For more information or to apply online, visit sport.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing:

“We’re making sure our clubs in Gippsland are as strong as possible – that’s what these grants are all about.”

“Giving administrators and volunteers opportunities to improve their skills will also give our clubs the edge to make sure that they’re sustainable going forward.”