The Allan Labor Government is supporting more Aboriginal athletes to reach the next level through a range of grants for uniforms, equipment and travel costs to sports carnivals.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today announced 48 teams, athletes and sport organisations will receive a grant from the latest round of the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program.
Sharing in more than $170,000 – grant recipients include the Mildura Basketball Association scoring over $11,000 for 17 players, ages 10 to 17, to participate in the Mildura Heat Junior Representative program at tournaments in Mildura, Swan Hill, Geelong, Shepparton, Bendigo and Adelaide over the summer season.
Yakapna Sporting Club in Shepparton also scored $5,000 towards the under 12 girls netball and under 17 boys football teams to participate in the VACSAL Junior State-wide Aboriginal Football Netball Carnival in Geelong.
Since 2020 the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program has provided more than 410 grants, totalling more than $482,000 to Aboriginal Community Controlled Originations and sporting clubs and associations.
For more information about the program and the latest successful recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“From Ash Barty to Patty Mills, Aboriginal athletes have done us proud on and off the sporting arena and this program aims to inspire our next generation to follow in their footsteps.”
As stated by Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins
“These grants not only support Aboriginal athletes to compete in the sports they love, but they also build important relationships and connections that help strengthen the community sport sector.”
As stated by Chairperson of Yakapna Sporting Club in Shepparton Graham Briggs
“This grant will make a significant difference to Yakapna Sporting Club and the community it serves in several ways.”
“It will make a substantial difference by providing a safer and more enjoyable environment for community members to engage in sport and recreational activities and Increased opportunities for our Youth.”
“With the funding, the club can expand its youth programs, including coaching and mentorship initiatives.”
