The Andrews Labor Government is helping athletes in Gippsland become sporting champions, by assisting with the costs of travel.

Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region today announced the opening of the latest round of the Athlete Pathway Travel Grants Program, which helps athletes compete and participate without the burden of travel costs.

Some of Victoria’s most celebrated sports stars come from regional Victoria, where travel to and from competitions or training camps can be difficult. Stars like Peter Siddle and Sharelle McMahon have made it to the top of their game, but it took many hours of long commutes to get there.

We know getting to and from state and national competitions can be a challenge for emerging athletes. That’s why we are offering State Sporting Associations grants of up to $6000 for teams or $2000 for individual athletes for travel to compete at national events or training camps.

Clubs can also apply for grants of up to $750 to assist athletes, coaches, officials and teams with travel coasts.

In its first year, the Athlete Pathway Travel Grants Program has provided 256 successful applicants from more than 60 different sports across the state a share in $533,000 funding.

Victoria is the sporting state, and we want it to stay that way. The Athlete Pathway Travel Grants Program is just one of our initiatives that keeps kids happy and healthy, communities connected and Victorians active.

For more information visit www.sport.vic.gov.au

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

“Gippsland is home to some great athletes with bright futures. We want to give them all the support we can.”

“Our star athletes have enough to worry about, so we’re removing some of the financial barriers to allow them to reach the top of their game.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, John Eren

“This is our small part in helping uncover the next crop of champion Victorian athletes.”