Grassroots footy gets well deserved support
Community football clubs and organisations across the state are set to benefit from increased funding after changes were announced to the 2022/23 Victorian Government Budget.
The Victorian Government has committed $88 million to deliver new and improved community sports infrastructure and programs to boost participation in local sports clubs and organisations.
Several funding programs are returning and will help support the growth of grassroots football and the increased participation of women and girls.
In a big boost for regional football clubs and communities, the longstanding Country Football and Netball Program has been renewed to provide grants to develop or upgrade football and netball facilities across the state to meet growing demand.
Established in 2005, the program supports upgrades such as ground resurfacing, the installation of lighting, safer netball courts and new pavilions with accessible and female-friendly change rooms for players and umpires.
The partnership between AFL Victoria, The Victorian Government, AFL and Netball Victoria has now delivered more than $34 million to support more than 550 projects and is a testament to the continued investment in community sport.
Also set to return, the Local Infrastructure Fund will deliver critical upgrades to pitches, ovals and pavilions and will focus on female friendly change rooms and facilities to encourage more women and girls to get involved in local sport.
More than $1.3 million will support more than 2,000 young people to find work in the sport and recreation sector by subsidising their accreditation – making it easier to get into the industry.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said “Victorians love their sport, and so many Victorians are thrilled to get back out there to their local clubs, get active and connect with their family and friends again.”
“We’re investing in community sports infrastructure because we know it’s good for local families, and we know it’s good for local workers too.”
“These investments are about levelling the playing field, creating jobs and making sure community sport continues to thrive as a key connector in our communities.”
Head of AFL Victoria Ben Kavenagh said the support would be essential to helping community football clubs prosper.
"It’s fantastic to see these programs continue, as they play an important role in helping communities to benefit from new and upgraded facilities and helping local football clubs thrive.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the support that The Victorian Government, the AFL and Netball Victoria have thrown behind these programs to help Victorians get back to the game they love.”
To learn more about the funding, head to https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/giving-grassroots-sport-support-it-deserves
