Community organisations or local governments can now apply for funding for programs that boost participation in hiking and trail running.
Grants of up to $25,000 are available to eligible organisations through the WA Hiking Participation Grants program, which aims to provide new opportunities that grow participation in hiking or develop leaders including guides, instructors and volunteers.
A total of $150,000 is available this year, with a further $150,000 allocated to WA Hiking Participation Grants in 2022-23.
Applicants are encouraged to think of innovative and creative ways of growing Western Australia’s community of bushwalkers, trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
More than $153,000 was shared amongst 14 local governments and community organisations in the 2020-21 grants program.
The program was a response to the recommendations of the McGowan Government’s WA Hiking Strategy 2020-2030, launched last June.
The strategy is the first of its kind in Australia, to ensure Western Australians continue to enjoy the great outdoors in a safe and sustainable way.
For more information on the WA Hiking Participation Grants program, visit https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/WA-Hiking-Grants
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Tony Buti:
“We know Western Australia rivals anywhere in the world when it comes to our trails and the incredible environments they traverse.
“These grants are about building the capacity of our hiking community to hold events, educate new cohorts of participants and to develop skills.
“Hiking and running are among the most accessible ways to get active, as well as a major tourism drawcard.
“However, there is a need for more gateway opportunities to hiking and more pathways to develop skills, so that we can decrease barriers to participation.
“By investing in community organisations and local governments, we are enabling the delivery of programs that make hiking a more accessible form of physical activity to maximise the positive impact on individuals, communities and the State.”
