Government boosts regional sport and recreation funding, with more to come
WA regional sport and recreation has received a $170,000 boost in grants from the State Government.
07 September 2010
The funding, ranging from $300 to $5,000, will benefit clubs and individuals, with regional grants for 2009-10 now at just over $650,000.
From November there will be further increases, in line with the government’s commitment to improve the quality of sporting opportunities for regional communities. The increases will enable more access to training and education programs and provide more support for regional sports organisations.
The additional $170,000 has been provided in a variety of categories, mostly focussing on coaching clinics for athletes, coaches and officials. However, funding for several events, including the State Masters Games in Bunbury, has also been made.
“These grants are a tremendous benefit to the thousands of people in WA, particularly rural and remote areas,” said the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Terry Waldron.
“For the most part, they will increase people’s skill levels, which will allow them to pass on knowledge to their members; so the benefits extend to more than just the recipients.
“In fact, by strengthening the knowledge and skills base of these organisations, it also enhances the community in general, because in these areas, sport and recreation is one of the main contributors to building stronger, healthier, happier and safer communities.”
The focus has been at a grass-root level, with a view to developing participation in sport and recreation among youth. For example, Bunbury and District Little Athletics Centre received $5,000 to develop its organisational capability.
“These grants allow organisations to enhance their ability to continue to function effectively and build on the programs they are already providing,” said Mr Waldron.
“Not every organisation can attract corporate dollars, so it’s vital that the government can step in to provide the necessary support to ensure their long-term future, which in turn makes these town and cities better places to live.”
The new funding program, to be known as Active Regional Communities (ARC), considers the differing needs of regions. It will include:
• Regionally significant sports – up to $15,000 (currently up to $10,000);
• Other regional sports historically funded through annual funding – up to $6,000 (currently up to $4,000);
• 1st State Team (formerly the Elite Sport Subsidy) that feeds into the Smarter than Smoking Country Sport Scholarships – $300 to $600 individual, $1,000 to $2,000 per team (currently $300 to $500 for both);
• Initiatives in capacity building, participation, high performance and event management – up to $5,000 (currently up to $1,500) and
• An event management program to assist hosting significant intra/inter regional competitions.
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