The Allan Labor Government is supporting more people to get involved in sport with grants for clubs and community organisations to strengthen and increase opportunities for people living with a disability in regional communities.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing has announced that applications are now open for the second round of the Regional All Abilities Participation Grants.

Grants of up to $25,000 are available in three categories: Equipment and Travel, Inclusion Workforce, and Programs and Disability-led Initiatives.

The grants can be used to purchase specialised or modified equipment and uniforms, such as sports wheelchairs, sensory balls, throwing frames, accessible starting systems, modified bats and racquets and other adaptive technologies enabling safe and inclusive participation.

For clubs that already have the right equipment and unforms, funding can be used to subsidise wages or salaries towards creating a skilled workforce to help boost participation – such as disability sports coaches, support workers or volunteers who are keen to broaden their skillset.

The funding can also be used to cover travel to competitions and festivals, and for clubs to create their own all-abilities sports programs.

Organisations that support community participation in sport and active recreation such as local clubs, state sporting associations, disability or self-advocacy groups, and health or disability providers are encouraged to apply.

Increasing opportunities for more Victorians to participate in sport and active recreation is a key objective of the Labor Government’s Active Victoria 2022-2026 – a strategic framework for sport and active recreation in Victoria.

For more information and to apply visit sport.vic.gov.au/funding

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“It’s so important that there’s room and help for everyone to participate in the sports they love - sport is something that belongs to everyone.”

“So many clubs and teams help to make it easier for people with disabilities and their families to get active, and creating an inclusive environment that supports people with disabilities to get involved boosts participation and opens new pathways, whether it’s playing, coaching, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines.”