Labor Is Backing Aboriginal Athletes To Dream Big

Labor is making playing sport more affordable and accessible for First Peoples athletes across Victoria. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today congratulated Aboriginal teams and athletes who have received grants to help play the sports they love. Round 1 grants total more than $68,000 invested directly in Aboriginal teams and players.

The Program helps cover uniforms, equipment, travel and accommodation costs and removes the cost barrier that may keep some First Peoples athletes on the sidelines. Individuals can access up to $250 for uniforms and equipment, and up to $750 for travel and accommodation. Teams can secure up to $2,500 for junior teams and $1,500 for senior teams, so athletes can get one step closer to achieving their sporting dreams.

Among the recipients are East Gippsland All Blacks Football and Netball Club, which has been awarded $4,500 to cover travel and accommodation to compete at a state level. Djirrip Sporting Club in Ballarat is another winner, with more than $12,000 helping its footy and netball teams with the costs of getting to a State carnival. Last year, 54 applicants shared more than $146,000 with groups like Darebin Netball Association and HC Dallas Phoenix Basketball Club using grants for new uniforms.

Since 2020, the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program has provided 570 grants to a wide range of clubs and individuals across Victorian communities. Labor has invested more than $155 million supporting community sport participation because we know sport connects communities and builds champions. The grant program is just one way Labor is strengthening communities around Victoria.

While Jess Wilson's Liberals have an $40 billion budget black hole which only means cuts – Labor is investing in sport and recreation opportunities for all Victorians including our First Peoples communities. For more information about the program and the latest successful recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au . Quotes attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence “Sport is a great cultural connector and the lifeblood of Victorian communities.” “We’re supporting more First Peoples athletes to participate in the sports they love by making it more affordable and accessible.” Quote attributable to Minister for First Peoples Gabrielle Williams “Labor is working every day to close the gap and ensuring all Victorians have access to the same opportunities and a stronger, brighter future.” 260827 - Labor Is Backing Aboriginal Athletes To Dream Big.pdf PDF 325.1 KB (opens in a new window)