Brimbank City Council’s innovative In2Sport Program
Brimbank City Council’s innovative In2Sport Program has provided just over 1000 sporting opportunities to young people in Brimbank since its launch in 2013.
The program provides children living in Brimbank with the opportunity to actively participate in sport and recreation, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Chair of Brimbank Administrators, Mr John Watson said the program has been embraced by the community.
“A highlight of the In2Sport Program is that a number of children have been given the opportunity to participate in a sport they have never played before,” Mr Watson said.
“This tells us the community wants to be active and is keen to get involved with local sporting and recreation clubs.”
Under the In2Sport program, applicants are eligible for up to $200 financial assistance to contribute to club fees, provided children are aged between 6 and 18 years, live in Brimbank and whose family holds either a Health Care Card or Pension Concession Card.
Applicants can receive up to 75 per cent of membership costs, with a maximum of $200 per child per year. These fees are passed on directly to the sports clubs through Brimbank City Council.
In addition, community partnerships have been strengthened through the program. This includes Cricket Victoria’s commitment of up to $8000 funding specifically to boost cricket club participation in Brimbank.Cricket Victoria Chief Executive Officer Tony Dodemaide said, “For the 2013-14 season, Victoria was the leading cricket participation state in Australia. Cricket is a game for everyone and thanks to Brimbank City Council and the Victorian Government, the In2Sport Brimbank program will help to increase participation opportunities for junior cricketers."
Sports Without Borders has supported the program since 2013. Sports Without Borders General Manager, Tarik Bayrakli said, “Sports Without Borders supports the social inclusion of new and emerging communities through sport. With Brimbank’s cultural diversity, the In2Sport program will assist many young people overcome the barriers of participation in organised sport competitions.”
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