Grassroots sports clubs across Wyndham are being urged to apply for funding to boost their equipment, skills and administration expertise.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas announced applications had opened for the latest round of the Victorian Government’s 2020-21 Sporting Club Grants Program.

The grants provide clubs up to $1,000 for new uniforms and equipment, up to $5,000 for training coaches, officials and volunteers, and up to $5,000 to improve club operational effectiveness.

They help people of all ages and abilities take part in grassroots sport, no matter where they live and are a great boost for clubs who are looking to get back on track following coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions.

In addition, the Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence has also announced the establishment of the new funding program, the Aboriginal Sporting Participation Grants Program.

This program replaces Category 4: Aboriginal Participation from the Sporting Club Grants Program. This new program will be a tailored annual grants program to address participation barriers Victorian Aboriginals experience in sport and active recreation.  This program will open for applications later this year.

The Sporting Club Grants Program is part of the Victorian Government’s commitment to make sport more accessible and inclusive, stimulate local economies, build sustainable sport and recreation and volunteer opportunities and increase local participation as coronavirus restrictions are lifted and it is safe to do so.

Since coming to office, the Victorian Government has provided more than 4,300 Sporting Club Grants to clubs across the state, totalling more than $5.8 million.

For more information on the grants and how to apply go to http://www.sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-grants/sporting-club-grants-program.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence

“Recent coronavirus restrictions have had a heavy impact on community sport, that’s why we’re proud to provide this funding lifeline that opens up a range of opportunities on and off the field for clubs and their members.”

“When it is safe to do so, we want community clubs to come back better than ever and this boost will go a long way to help clubs, coaches, athletes and officials get back in the game.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“The Sporting Club Grants Program is giving grassroots sports clubs in Wyndham the support they need to grow their ranks and help more people than ever play the sports they love.”

“I encourage all our local clubs in the Werribee District to grasp this opportunity and apply.”