Local sports clubs are being invited to apply for grants of up to $20,000, with Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea saying the focus this year is on encouraging more talented girls and young women into sport programs.
Mr O’Dea said, “Around half of all Australian boys are active through a sports club during their childhood, compared with just 33 per cent of girls.
“The participation rate for girls drops sharply after girls turn 12.
“I encourage all local clubs and sporting organisations to use this opportunity to boost their female programs and events.
“We want to see girls not only take to the field, but stay on the field,” he said.
Thousands of local clubs across the State are now eligible to apply for funding under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.
The grants will cover initiatives such as new sport programs, upgrades to facilities and projects that improve participation in sport.
Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, said the program is part of a $10 million sport grants package announced by the NSW Government.
“Women’s sport is the fastest growing area of many codes and we are now seeing more big name sponsors and media networks recognising the public’s appetite for prime time viewing, but more needs to be done, including cultivating participation at a grass roots level,” Mr Ayres said.
“From the bush to the city, sport is the lifeblood that unites communities.
He said, “This is not just about female programs though.
“I encourage all sporting groups to apply for grants that will help people of all ages and abilities get involved in their local club or become more active.”
Grants are now open until 6 October 2017.
For more information, visit www.sportandrecreation.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants or phone 13 13 02.
