The Palaszczuk Government is overhauling its approach to sporting infrastructure for community clubs as part of its playbook for a more active and healthier Queensland.
Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni says volunteer-run organisations have in the past faced significant hurdles when competing for grants for key projects such as clubhouses, changerooms, lighting and playing surfaces.
“Today we are inviting local sport and recreation organisations to collaborate with community organisations to develop and state their case for up to $1 million in funding as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Active Community Infrastructure program,” said Mr de Brenni.
“This new program will see up to 150 infrastructure projects delivered in local communities through a $40 million investment over three years,” he said.
Mr de Brenni said applications will now be judged against criteria more focussed on partnership.
“Rather than a lengthy, and often expensive, competitive grants process, clubs will be encouraged to collaborate with other organisations to briefly express how their project will improve accessibility, functionality and adaptability of community spaces and places,” he said.
“The key will be to work together to demonstrate how collaboration can increase opportunities for use of public facilities by connecting with other social infrastructure such as other clubs, schools and community groups.
Mr de Brenni said that through its $1.3 billion, 10-year plan to Activate! Queensland, the Palaszczuk Government is committed inspiring Queenslanders to be more active, more often.
“Funding for any program, event, clubhouse, change room or light pole should fulfil our goals for a more active Queensland, and provide a quality experience for all – regardless of gender, age, ability, or location” he said.
“Community sports administrators told us you wanted to do things differently to deliver greater value for Queenslanders and we’ve listened.
“Partnerships are a cornerstone of our approach and I encourage clubs to work together, and we’ll support and facilitate that too.”
