The Allan Labor Government is backing grassroots sports clubs to break down barriers to participation and help build social and active local communities.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today joined Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny and members of Epping Football Netball Club to announce that 560 recipients are sharing more than $694,000 from the latest round of the Sporting Club Grants Program.

Epping Football Netball Club received $1,000 towards the purchase of women’s footy jumpers, whilst Warburton Bowls Club scored $1,000 towards adaptable equipment for all-abilities bowls and Wantirna South Cricket Club and Craigieburn Basketball Association Inc both received $2,000 to upskill volunteer junior coaching staff.

The Program provides up to $1,000 for uniforms, equipment and resources that improve accessibility and engagement; up to $2,000 for projects to strengthen volunteering and officiating; up to $4,000 to deliver a new sport or recreation program and up to $750 to support athlete travel.

By providing more opportunities for clubs and organisations to build their capacity, this program goes a long way towards future proofing grassroots sport and recreation and ensuring clubs have the skills they need to take their game to the next level.

Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence

“This is about helping to boost memberships, supporting volunteers and getting behind grassroots sport, which is a vital part of local communities.”

Quote attributable to President of the Epping Football Netball Club Adrian Onofretchook

“It’s been a long-time getting a women’s side together, but it’s finally going to happen. Now local women will have somewhere to socialise and keep fit doing it.”