6th May 2015
Vicsport is pleased that the Government recognises sport as an excellent vehicle for community growth and development in its 2015/16 budget which includes additional funding for community sporting facilities.
Vicsport Chairman Margot Foster said that the budget confirms and reinforces the vital role sport can play in local communities;
“Victoria is the sporting capital of the world for events and elite performances and it is now hoped that this budget is the first step in Victoria claiming the sporting capital title for participation and community access.”
“Regular participation in sport and active recreation offers benefits to people and their communities contributing to a range of health, education, community development and economic objectives. Investment in community sport delivers tangible and measurable returns for many Government objectives and it is most encouraging that the benefits of sport and physical activity are acknowledged in this budget. Investment in facilities is one of several areas for which community sport requires support and assistance’’
Current trends, and evidence, indicate that Victorians wish to participate in a variety of ways, including traditional club competitions, social competitions and events, and pay as you play participation options. Facilities are one important factor in ensuring that Victorians can enjoy the benefits of being involved in sport and active recreation. The ability and capacity of sports organisations to deliver the services and opportunities that Victorians expect to enjoy remains a challenge given the reliance on a largely volunteer workforce and limited funding.
Despite the recognition of the wonderful benefits community sport can provide and the additional investment in facilities, the cost of participation is a barrier for many Victorian families. Vicsport encourages the Government to subsidise access to participation in future budgets to ensure that the maximum number of Victorians can access and benefit from the outstanding facilities this budget is supporting.
While supporting the Budget announcements Vicsport looks forward to future Government investment in:
- The capacity of sporting organisations to deliver the sport and active recreation programs Victorians expect to enjoy; and
- Subsidising the cost of club membership for children and youth for whom cost is a barrier.
Vicsport looks forward to more information on the Active Communities Participation Package and offers to support the Government on the implementation of this initiative.
-ENDS-
More details on the budget for sports and recreation available here.
For further information please contact Vicsport Chief Executive Officer Mark McAllion p. 03 9926 1376 m. 0432 426 477 e. markm@vicsport.com.au
Follow us on Twitter - @vicsportau
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