Boost for Get in the Game programs to benefit grassroots sport

The Queensland Government’s hugely successful Get in the Game initiative to assist sport and recreation at the grassroots level is set to receive a big funding boost.

Sport and Racing Minister Bill Byrne said funding of more than $80 million had been approved for Get in the Game over the next three years.

“This is a $10 million increase on the funding allocated to the initiative in its first three years,” Minister Byrne said.

“It means we will be able to provide more opportunities for Queenslanders to participate in sport and active recreation—to get more people outdoors, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“Many Queenslanders have already benefited from funding provided through Get in the Game programs and the Palaszczuk Government is committed to see this number increase during the next three years.

“Close to 100,000 vouchers worth up to $150 have been provided to help children and young people who can least afford to join a sport or recreation club.

“On top of that, hundreds of clubs throughout the state have received funding for club capacity projects to improve their facilities, buy equipment and support their members.

“With the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games only a few years away, these are the kind of foundations we need to maintain for our possible Queensland representatives in the Games team.

“We are now in a position to not only continue with the programs but to provide a greater level of support for families as well as sport and recreation clubs and community facilities across the state.

“Local sport and recreation clubs not only promote the benefits of physical activity and a healthy wellbeing, they are a valuable asset to communities—to bring everyone together and create a friendly local environment.”

Funding for each program will include:

-        Get Started Vouchers—$15 million over three years for vouchers of up to $150 to assist children and young people who can least afford to join a sport or recreation club.

-        Get Going Clubs—$10.5 million over three years for funding of up to $7500 for equipment and projects that improve access to sport and recreation activities.

-        Get Playing Places and Spaces—$33 million over three years for funding of up to $100,000 for new or upgraded sport and recreation facilities.

-        Get Playing Plus—$22.635 million over two years for funding between $300,000 and $1.5 million for new or upgraded sport and recreation facilities that meet regional and community needs.

Opening dates for upcoming rounds of each program are:

-        Get Started Vouchers—15 July.

-        Get Going Clubs—3 August.

-        Get Playing Places and Spaces—3 August.

-        Get Playing Plus—1 September.

For more information on all Get in the Game program dates, visit www.npsr.qld.gov.au/getinthegame

ENDS

Media Contact: Michelle Connolly: 0478 325 738