School gates are swinging open across the State as part of the Tasmanian Government’s commitment to give community and sporting groups greater access to school ovals and sports courts.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said schools are at the heart of their communities and opening facilities beyond the school day helps more Tasmanians stay active and connected.
“Our schools are valuable community assets, and we want to see them used wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so,” Minister Palmer said.
“By continuing to open school gates, we’re creating more opportunities for children and families to be active, connect with their communities and enjoy quality facilities outside school hours.
“Whether it’s local sporting clubs, community groups or school holiday programs like AFL Tasmania’s Auskick, making these facilities available means they can be enjoyed by more Tasmanians.”
A dedicated Community Liaison Sport team works with schools, sporting organisations and community groups to increase appropriate out-of-hours access to school sporting facilities.
“By working together, we’re not just opening doors, we’re building healthier, stronger communities that everyone can enjoy,” Minister Palmer said.
“More Tasmanians are taking advantage of our school ovals and sports courts than ever before, with a 24 per cent increase in indoor facility use and a 58 per cent increase in outdoor facility use across 2024–2025.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re helping more Tasmanians stay active, develop new skills and build connections through sport.”
The Tasmanian Government is supporting the strong demand for facilities by delivering $10 million of upgrades to school playgrounds and sports courts.
“As part of our $10 million investment, we have already delivered upgrades at 17 school playgrounds and sports courts,” Minister Palmer said.
“We are getting on with the job of delivering upgrades to another 87 schools and child and family learning centres over the next five years, providing improved facilities for our schools and broader community.”
